TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE JUNE 2021

TOURISM | HOSPITALITY | BUSINESS | DIPLOMACY | CULTURE

FEBRUARY 2021

JUNE 2021

REGENT

a Collection of Outstanding Experiences Kai Dieckmann, GM of Regent Porto Montenegro

Photo: Regent Porto Montenegro

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DIDIER GUSCHING

MARCOS ALONSO ALONSO

NATIONAL DAY OF SWEDEN

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ERIK BOER

ALPINE BEES

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EDWIN WIJKHUIJS

MA STUDIO & PARTNERS

FINLAND/ SUSTAINABILITY

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FISHEYES & AQUA

DESERT RESORTS IN UAE

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LUFTHANSA GROUP

AFRICAN FASHION

KAENG PHANAENG

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118 HORSE RIDING

PRISHTINA 4ICT INDUSTRY 2021 PAGE

PORTOMONTENEGRO.COM #ALifeLessOrdinary

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FASHION REVOLUTION

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196+ EVENTS

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QIFQI FROM GJIROKASTRA

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JJ WOODS ON CASINO PAGE

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MONASTERY OF ARDENICA

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE EMBASSY OF SWEDEN.

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REGENT, a Collection of Outstanding Experiences Photos: Regent Porto Montenegro

BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO

R

JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE

egent Porto

Table is available where you can enjoy

Montenegro is an

a four or six-course menu, created and

unique experience

presented by Regent’s chefs exclusively

unlike any other.

for groups of up to 8 guests,” he added.

The General The 5 star hotel is also an amazing

Manager of Regent

Porto Montenegro, Kai Dieckmann sat

destination for the luxurious superyachts

with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE to

lovers. Regent, full of rich nautical

reveal what his Hotel, an ultimate luxury

heritage, is in the heart of Porto

retreat, located in the heart of Boka Bay,

Montenegro - a remarkable nautical

offers for the guests this summer.

village and super yacht marina. “The organisation of the marina is remarkable,

“Regent Porto Montenegro is looking

and the attention given to the sense of

to welcome guests this summer with an

community is what sets us apart

array of specially curated events that

from other yachting destinations. The

promise exclusive and personalised

fact that the most glamorous events

entertainment, from globally inspired

take place here is yet another reason for

foodie weekends to an elegant Captain’s

guests to visit,” he said.

Dinner and cocktail Fridays with live

Read the full interview below to learn

music,” Dieckmann said in this interview.

about Regent Porto Montenegro from A to Z.

New for this season, among many other things, Regent’s Gourmet Corner will be taken over by a different cuisine each week, transporting guests around the world. “Specialty dishes from Greece, Italy, Asia and France will be available for guests to sample. For guests looking for a more personalised and private experience, Regent’s intimate Chef’s

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Tourism is bouncing back. How has

promise exclusive and personalised

of salads and indulgent desserts with

Regent Porto Montenegro resumed

entertainment, from globally inspired

a weekend offering evolving around

its operations and can you tell us

foodie weekends to an elegant Captain’s

guilt-free, raw desserts.

more on the measures you have taken

Dinner and cocktail Fridays with live

For guests wishing to respect the social

to guarantee a super summer for all

music.

distancing rules, Regent has plenty to

your existing and new clients?

offer: the Spa Privée offer allows guests

pandemic, Regent Porto Montenegro had a fairly successful season in 2020 and bookings for summer

to relax in total comfort with exclusive

The hotel will also be hosting a series

Having remained open throughout the

“Regent Porto Montenegro is looking to welcome guests this summer ”

of standout themed

access to the Regent Spa between

dinners for its

9:30pm – midnight, with full use of the

guests at Murano restaurant including the Mediterranean Candlelit Dinner, the

2021 are looking to

spa facilities including the swimming

intimate Chef’s Table is available where

pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, steam

you can enjoy a four or six-course menu,

bath and experience shower – all

created and presented by Regent’s chefs

accompanied by a complimentary bottle

exclusively for groups of up to 8 guests.

of Champagne.

be even stronger. A number of airlines

five-course Truffle Dinners and Regent’s

are restarting their routes and some

Full Moon Gala Dinner held in the hotel’s

exciting new markets are opening for

Italian Garden, with Venetian masks

The bath menu available in-room

Montenegro too.

available for guests wanting to add an

provides a sumptuous bathing

Regent Porto Montenegro is looking to

element of mystery to their evening.

experience with an array of scented oils and massages on request.

welcome guests this summer with an New for this season, Regent’s Gourmet

array of specially curated events that

Corner will be taken over

Superyacht Marina & Luxury

by a different cuisine each

Residences has greatly influenced

week, transporting guests

on the image of Regent Porto

around the world. Specialty

Montenegro. Did you foresee the

dishes from Greece, Italy,

yachting scene further evolving in

Asia and France will be available for guests to sample. For guests looking for a more personalised and private experience, Regent’s

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Regent Porto Montenegro? What

In the Library Bar, the skilled bartenders

do you think about the local marine

will be hard at work preparing cocktails

industry?

bursting with flavour, mixed with either

The nautical village and glamorous

gin or vodka. Gourmet Corner remains

superyacht marina of Porto Montenegro

the all-day dining spot offering an array

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is the perfect home to Regent Porto

ideal place for visitors “whose blood is

The outstanding service would not be

we became the exclusive address of the

Montenegro, with the luxurious

salty” and is packed full of rich nautical

possible without the people and those

Beluga Epicure by Lalique, the most

atmosphere of the hotel elegantly

heritage. Throughout the 20th century,

at Regent Porto Montenegro make the

luxurious Beluga vodka whose shots

reflected in its surrounding environment.

the maritime industry has been in

world of difference with their inherited

costs around 400 euros each and bottles

The yachting industry has its own

gradual decline, but Porto Montenegro

Montenegrin hospitality and impeccable

over 9,000 each.

presence and Porto Montenegro has

is working on regaining the world’s

attention to detail. The tailor-made

Porto Montenegro is soon welcoming

been leading the nautical story on the

attention as one of the top yachting

service on offer at Regent Porto

the top tier mono designer brand that

global frontier for the last few years,

destinations.

Montenegro ensures our guests enjoy a

will again prove that this nautical village

impeccably drawing the attention of

Can you name some of the reasons

stay they will never forget.

is among most glamorous destinations

the nautical experts to this part of the

the clients are loyal to Superyacht

world. We have had the honour of

Marina & Luxury Residences at

Montenegro is a small country with

has also expanded the gastronomic

sponsoring and partnering with RC44

Regent Porto Montenegro?

endless opportunities for an opulent

offering even further.

regatta and some acclaimed events

The level of service within Porto

getaway. The neighbouring sea and the

that have gathered the captains of

Montenegro is a state of art and Regent

mountains offers endless opportunities

What makes Regent Porto

the megayachts and leading industry

has taken it one step further within

for enjoying either an active, peaceful or

Montenegro an unforgettable guest

professionals to Porto Montenegro,

the hospitality industry. This is exactly

indulgent lifestyle as well as numerous

experience?

with the aim of enhancing the idea of

what is appreciated by the clientele; we

activities that will appeal to every guest.

Regent Porto Montenegro values each

the nautical lifestyle. Regent, located

increased the standard of service within

in the heart of the Boka Bay, is the

the region to a very high standard. The

in Europe. Opening of 4 new restaurants

individual guest and their specific tastes.

Share with us some of the exciting

Each team member is selected for their

organisation of the marina

plans in the pipeline for the Regent

attitude, energy and experience and

is remarkable, and the

Porto Montenegro and its Superyacht

has proven their professionalism in the

attention given to the sense

Marina & Luxury Residences this

best and most challenging times. So,

of community is what sets us

year?

to the guest, Regent is a collection of

apart

In addition to the exciting calendar of

the best facilities, elements of Boka Bay

from other yachting

events that celebrate our 8th summer in

and the region (design, architecture,

destinations. The fact that

operation, we have opened a fifth venue

gastronomy and wellness), yet each of

the most glamorous events

called Onyx Bar & Garden by Beluga

these are overshadowed by the soul

take place here is yet another

where the cocktail list will be based on

of the Montenegrin people, who make

reason for guests to visit.

the various Beluga vodka lines. With

each guest experience unforgettable.

the launch of this new cocktail venue,

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Being a True Host Far More Important than a Big Marketing Strategy

I

BY JOSE PINTO*

f you’re a hotel struggler

But there is also a negative side to it:

and have hotel operations

the unhappy guest, the unmotivated

going in your “veins”, as

employee or even an unexpected

I am, I’m sure you’ll agree

operative problem. Such is life within our

that nothing is more exciting

real “World”, the Hotels.

than arriving at your lobby

or breakfast room and

Why would a guest arrive in

wonder what will be waiting

his elegant room or

for you on the day, what

suite and instantly

interesting people you will

complain about the

be meeting, how will be

lack of ocean view?

your employee’s happiness among many other factors

Or why would another

that you and me aspire

guest, who has a

daily. How great is to

beautifully laid out

start a happy day with

state-of-the-art gym at

great “real smiles”!

his disposal only pay

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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E

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even plan their next business Perhaps we have to start looking

move.

inside and revise or detect

They aren’t booking for

if they are not exaggerating

luxury rooms or suites; they

in the creation of fantasies,

are looking for a piece of

false expectances in order to

happiness and a memorable

attract them with our Marketing

experience.

strategies.

But is a hotel the perfect venue to provide that? What do you think?

We think we are in the business of selling accommodations only,

attention to the fact that the gym’s TV

but our guests, customers and

program does not include his favorite

travelers are looking for anything that

station and so he demands to see the General Manager or Managing Director?

Today we know that one large part of the consumers is literally trained “or are assessed “to find any fault during their stay to get a refund or to have any kind or compensation including

damages their dream and causes great disappointment.

I’m an Hotelier that had great “teachers” and as I recall, I was told since “DAY ONE” that either you love

make them feel out of their World. They are always looking to have different

If you’ve ever stood in a hotel lobby, you

what you do to “be a great host” or you

experiences and expect the unexpected

know very well what I am talking about.

fail as an hotelier.

during their stay.

You see groups of tired people arriving with dark circles under their eyes and

Most of the times, all it needed is a little

Guest expectations are high and

stressed faces but determined to make

attention. I mean a great eye contact, a

any little thing that goes wrong

one or two upcoming weeks the best

smile or a little anticipation of anything,

days of their lives.

that most times they don’t tell you

a free stay, this what many

verbally, but you as an expert in dealing

travelers know and call “value

The stay is their opportunity to recover

for money”.

with people can detect via their faces

from non-stop work at home during

or moves or even listening to their talk

the tiring pandemic times and many

among their friends or in parties.

What could be the reason

other unsuccessful business trips among

that we hoteliers still don’t

thousands of reasons, therefore they just

understand, what are the

As always said, small gestures make

want to have fun, or get closer to their

guests, travelers really looking

wonderful memories in our minds

relationship and solve their issues or a

for?

forever.

romantic getaway out of home venue or

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we do most times?

Then I suggest that the Hotel Marketers

My recommendation is that Human

must also create and transmit that the

Resource Management and Training

Finally how can we express

Brand also provides a human to human

be joined by presentations of the

relations too, not only a great service,

Marketing Team. They should transmit

a stunning building with great rooms

“strategies and achievements “, praise

expectations?

and suites with luxurious decoration,

and motivation. This action will give rise

Egyptian cotton, silk pillows cases and a

in its broader sense and make happier

If Hotel marketing is according

superb location.

employees by giving them “a sense to

that in our marketing without creating fantasies or wrong

to the “gurus”, an umbrella

In our daily hotel work, we have a

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belonging” and finally that will make the

term, which refers to the various

What makes you stand out from

marketing strategies and

anything and any competitor is the

guests and travelers happier.

techniques that hotels use,

intangible un-noticed touches in service,

These focus points will then inform how

tendency to focus so much in how to

in order to promote their business

human kindness then the other tangible

you plan the rest of your hotel marketing

create Marketing on logistics, statistics,

and make a positive impression on

services.

strategies, and both are linked to each

strategies and feedback scores,

customers. Essentially, it is about

percentages of this and that and we are

making a hotel as appealing as possible,

losing the meaning of being Hotelier, I mean a truly one , a Host.

Guests and travelers are

other. The brand message you run with But the subject does not finish there,

will ultimately impact employees and the

in order to attract as many guests as

if you really want to succeed; your

kind of guests you attract.

possible.

Marketing team must be responsible to transmit their Marketing STRATEGY

But if you don’t know what voice to

“without any fantasy to the employees.”

speak with, or who you don’t want to hear it, business is unlikely to boom.

human beings and what they want and look for is that you

In hotels which marketing is shown

we hoteliers act as a host

to be distant from the rest of the

and make them matter.

team and does not transmit to human resource management their strategy is

So, the question to ask

a candidate to failure. Marketing Team

ourselves is this: How do we

and Hotel operations MUST BE HAND

become true hosts and show

IN HAND , I mean “we all should speak

our guests that we really

the same language “

* FOUNDER OF JPHOSPITALITY.EU

care with true meaning as

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Meet the Winners of the 2021 European Inventor Award All finalists of European Inventor Award 2021

EPO President António Campinos

EPO REVEALED THAT IT HAS ESTABLISHED THE YOUNG INVENTORS PRIZE FOR INNOVATORS AGED 30 AND UNDER

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n June 17, the European Patent Office (EPO) announced the winners of the European Inventor Award 2021, its prestigious annual innovation prize. This year’s Award

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ceremony, held for the first time as a digital event, was entirely open to the public, who tuned in from around the world as the winners were announced.

The Office also revealed that it has established the Young Inventors prize for innovators aged 30 and under.

“In these challenging times, it is inspiring to see the creativity and dedication shown by these inventors in bringing innovative solutions to the world,” said EPO President António Campinos.

“Their achievements remind us that obstacles can be overcome by applying imagination, knowledge, and ingenuity. The ability to take a new idea to market also demands perseverance and a supportive environment for innovation, and the finalists and winners of the European Inventor Award 2021 are all testament to this.”

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I N N OVAT I O N

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THE LAUREATES OF THE EUROPEAN INVENTOR AWARD 2021 ARE:

Research

Industry

PER GISLE DJUPESLAND (NORWAY) Better nasal drug delivery The Norwegian inventor’s medical device uses the nose’s natural form and the patient’s breath to improve nasal drug delivery and provide relief for various conditions. The invention helped grow a company that is now stock-exchange listed and develops innovative medical solutions - a breath of fresh air for patients. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/europeaninventor/finalists/2021/djupesland.html

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ROBERT N. GRASS AND WENDELIN STARK (AUSTRIA/SWITZERLAND) DNA-based data storage The Austrian and Swiss inventors developed a novel method of preserving data converted into genetic code using artificial fossilisation in tiny glass spheres. They created a storage format with the potential to protect valuable data for millennia, as well as a robust DNA barcode: when their miniscule particles are applied to products, they ensure that specific indicators - such as the origin or working conditions - are traceable throughout the supply chain. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/europeaninventor/finalists/2021/grass.html

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Non-EPO countries

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

SUMITA MITRA (INDIA/USA) Restoring smiles with nanomaterials This researcher found that nanoclusters could be used in dentistry, resulting in robust, durable, and aesthetically pleasing fillings. Her material overcomes many limitations of previous dental composites, which were either too weak to be used on biting surfaces or quickly lost their polish. These tiny clusters have been used in one billion dental restorations worldwide. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/europeaninventor/finalists/2021/mitra.html

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HENRIK LINDSTRÖM AND GIOVANNI FILI (SWEDEN) Flexible solar cells for portable devices From their plant in Stockholm, the inventors produce a dye-sensitised solar cell using a new electrode material with very high conductivity that can be customprinted in almost any shape or colour and can even generate electricity indoors.

Thanks to this versatility, the cells are being integrated into various electronics to create self-charging devices. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/european -inventor/finalists/2021/lindstrom.html

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Lifetime achievement

Popular Prize

GORDANA VUNJAK-NOVAKOVIC (SERBIA/USA) Advances in tissue engineering

KARL LEO (GERMANY) Advances in organic semiconductors The German physicist advanced organic semiconductors by improving their conductivity through a technique called doping, ushering in a new generation of highly efficient organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. His OLEDs provide enhanced image brightness, colour resolution, and power efficiency in electronic devices. Currently, half of the world’s smartphones and many types of ultralight organic solar cells incorporate his technology. He has also founded several companies in a career spanning over 30 years. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/european-inventor /finalists/2021/leo.html

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Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic (Serbia/USA) Advances in tissue engineering The Popular Prize, awarded to one of the 15 finalists through an online public vote, this year went to Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic for her advances in tissue engineering.

The Popular Prize is designed to honour the inventor or team of inventors that have inspired and impressed the general public with their creativity and genius. The Office received around 27 000 votes for 15 finalists at this year’s Award. https://www.epo.org/news-events/events/europeaninventor/finalists/2021/vunjak-novakovic.html NEW PRIZE FOR YOUNG INVENTORS To inspire the next generation of inventors, the EPO has established the Young Inventors prize. From students to entrepreneurs, the global prize is open to various innovators aged 30 and under and will recognise sustainability-driven initiatives across all technical fields.

Unlike the current categories, a granted European patent is not a pre-requisite, and is not limited to individuals with EPO Member State nationality, enabling young innovators around the globe to participate.

Nominations for the 2022 edition of the European Inventor Award are now open.

Courtesy of EPO

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EU4CULTURE, ONE OF THE LARGEST CULTURAL HERITAGE PROGRAMMES

BY THE EU

BY RUDINA HOXHA

A

s UNOPS has set to work at full swing in Albania, Pamela Lama, UNOPS Albania Country Manager, shares with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE what is expected to be completed in a near and long term future and what challenges are ahead of her.

In particular, EU4Culture, to be implemented under UNOPS in close cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, is deemed considerably important by Mrs. Lama stressing that 43 sites have been evaluated and 27 were found to be eligible for intervention under the programme. They are all located in areas affected by the earthquake, primarily in the districts of Tirana, Durres, Lezha.

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Full interview below: Last September, the new EU4Culture programme was signed between the EU Ambassador to Albania Luigi Soreca and UNOPS Director of Vienna MultiCountry Office Freya von Groote.

Please tell us shortly about UNOPS work in the country and share with us the main pillars of the EU4Culture Programme.

UNOPS is the United Nations (UN) infrastructure and procurement specialists. We also provide other services including project management, financial management and human resources. In Albania, we work with our partners on a range of projects.

This includes the EU4Culture project as well as our support to the government of Albania on the COVID-19 response efforts. UNOPS works closely with the UN Country

“We also provide other services including project management, financial management and human resources. ”

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team on sustainable development actively contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026 with the Albanian government.

The EU4Culture project is funded by the European Union (EU) and is being implemented by UNOPS, in close partnership with the Ministry of Culture, with a total budget of € 40 million. Its goal is to restore the cultural heritage sites damaged by the November 2019 earthquake.

In addition to the restoration, the project will invest in the revitalization of the sites, which will contribute to Albania’s socio-economic recovery by improving its tourism potential. It will also provide technical support to Albanian institutions through international and EU standards and expertise and offer grants to help local communities.

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Can you describe briefly how the Euro40 m fund will be used? Who is eligible for it?

A thorough evaluation has been done, analysing many elements, both the construction conditions and site value, along with the economic benefits it will bring to the community. In cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of Cultural Heritage, 43 sites have been evaluated and 27 were found to be eligible for intervention under the programme. They are all located in areas affected by the earthquake, primarily in the districts of Tirana, Durres, Lezha. The first group of sites where work started or will start soon are the National Historic Museum, The National Puppet Theatre, The Venetian Tower in Durrës, The Ethnographic

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Museum of Kruja, The Ethnographic Museum of Kavaja, The Lezha Castle, Kurcaj Bridge, The Monastic Church of Rubik, The St. Antony Church of Rodon.

During Europe Week 2021, you visited many cultural objects such as Venetian Tower in Durres, the iconic Church in Rubik, the Ethnographic Museums of Kavaja and Kruja, the Tirana Puppet Theatre, the Mosaic of the National History Museum and many others. What are the imminent interventions expected from EU4Culture?

We are working with cultural heritage specialists, craftspeople, public and private entities, and we see this exchange as a direct contribution to both our learning and also to that one of

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our partners. On the other hand, given the substantial and systematic planned interventions, the complex contracts management, the heavy infrastructure and project management components, UNOPS’ experience and expertise in delivering efficiently is an important advantage.

Almost all project sites will undergo several intervention phases, starting from the restoration and conservation of the fabric, interpretation, cultural heritage management and business planning and disaster risk management. In close partnership with the Ministry of Culture, we shall be working to develop new models of sustainable and responsible heritage utilization which is contributing towards local and national economic development.

How important is it to raise awareness about the importance of EU4Culture project? In your opinion, what is the importance of communicating and sharing views about cultural heritage?

EU4Culture is one of the largest ever cultural heritage programmes designed by the EU. We share the EU and the government of Albania’s vision for a future that respects and preserves its past. Protecting history allows more people to learn and share the story of that culture. The value of this extends far beyond cultural heritage and can allow local communities to take advantage of the economic benefits too.

For more information on UNOPS and the EU4Culture project, please visit: https://www.unops.org/; https://www. facebook.com/eu4culturealbania.

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he French Didier Gusching is an international chef who is the pioneer of the bio garden concept in the United Arab Emirates.

He grasped the opportunity and established the innovative approach, called “Green cuisine or Cuisine with a Conscience.”

“It is easy to grab a phone and call for food orders and deliveries but by going out to the market, finding local sources, local products, the benefits are endless. We are developing what we call “ food from farm to table’ and the one I made “ Green Cuisine or Cuisine with a Conscience”!!,” Gusching tells in this exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE.

SPOTLIGHT ON Didier Gusching

THE FIRST UAE EXECUTIVE CHEF AND UAE PIONEER OF THE BIO GARDEN CONCEPT

BY JOSE PINTO & RUDINA HOXHA

He elaborates on the benefits and the advantages of bio garden for hotels and sustainability in general. “The benefit of being sustainable will lead to new businesses and this will keep our guests keen on that and looking more and more in that direction. It will also increase guests’ satisfaction as well as shareholders profits by reducing food and its costs,” the seasoned chef said.

Three decades later, Gusching realized his whole project on bio garden in his home.

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“Now , since we have found our place, here in a Green Ardeche, in Burzet , our charming village , which is located in the heart of the “Géo Park - Parc Regional des Monts d Ardèche - “ https://lnkd. in/d5BZdrz is a high recognition , UNESCO labeled due to its preservation, geology and sustainability.”

Moreover, he added, “Our village is also labeled “ Station Verte” – Green Label - for its quality of life in a preserved & natural environment.”

Full interview below: What sparked your road trip towards organic farming?

Since our childhood, it has always been part of our family to grow crops. We were not talking about organic at that time, “just growing “ the natural way without chemical fertilizers and following the season and the moon cycle.

Once in Dubai, we could not find herbs or simple tomatoes with real taste or we were heavily depending on overseas deliveries – that’s how it started.

Since we had at that time - Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa - a huge, some untouched or /and unused land, I spoke with my GM at that time, Mr Mark Bettsworth (RIP) about it one day. He was wondering what to do to with this land at the

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retained due to that.

We made the changes.

Works were not easy at the beginning but results talked!

entrance of the resort and near by the staff accommodation. “ What we could do there to hide a bit those staff buildings and enhance the entrance? he said.

My answer was straight forward and opportunity to do what I always wanted to introduced. “Give it to me to create our own Bio Garden” Sir!. There was none at that time in Dubai or UAE at least as Hotel ground. I had to convince him, made plans, showing him around.

A few days after, as I was explaining why and how, when I saw his eyes sparkling, I knew the land would be “mine.”

He gave me some part of the land to start with herbs and cherry tomatoes; works started. We had to remove some sandy soil and replace it with another type of soil from Al Ain - which could retain water and moist (sandy soil is “round shaped “ and water will not be

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Can you tell to our readers how the bio garden idea work?

From an initial “herbs garden “ with a few parches - its first name“Bio Garden” with more than 5000 square meters. We were self-sufficient for 2 outlets and herbs / cherry to tomatoes for the whole hotel (600 rooms / 17 outlets / huge outside catering.)

We were recycling our green waste from kitchen - peels etc - into composting so we reduced our impact on trash and plastic bags as well considerably.

We were selling our used oils to some guys who turned them into bio diesel for their vehicles - the cash received from it, used to cover the salary of one gardener and maintenance of the garden.

Especially in Dubai in the summer days, we were recycling the water from golf irrigations and turned them into water to irrigate our garden and cut expenses.

messages for the Albanian farmers to encourage them into organic farming and be more competitive?

Message is clear: reduce carbon food print; use local resources; promote your vicinities; work hand by hand with your farmers; use the season products; cut on your costs.

Food will taste real, even though you will need to educate some people on it.

You will be surprised to see how many

people have no clue of real food those days.

By working hard by hands, close with your sources, you will also develop social activities and you will enjoy fresh air!

It is easy to grab a phone and call for food orders and deliveries but by going out to the market, finding local sources, local products, the benefits are endless.

We are developing what we call “ food from farm to table’ and the one I made “ Green Cuisine or Cuisine with a Conscience”!!

In your view, what are the benefits of HOTEL organic farming today?

Can it lead to business sustainability?

Answer is above. Plus, the benefit of being sustainable will lead to new businesses and this will keep our guests keen on that and looking more and more in that direction. It will also increase guests’ satisfaction as well as shareholders profits by reducing food and its costs.

In certain regions in Albania, there are many areas suitable for homesteading, small scale and organic farming. What would be your

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many years. The actual situation is boosting the opportunity to do it faster as travels abroad will be reduced considerably - I believe - so local tourism will grow.

What changes have you seen in the last decade in organic farming and how do you deem its future?

Future is here already. We see the trends, fashion and Chefs from all over the world in that direction. I am glad and proud to say, that from what we did at the initial stage, showed we were in right direction and well ahead the trends.

I was the first UAE Executive Chef and UAE pioneer to launch such green initiative and I am grateful to my GM at that time as well as the owners who was very supportive.

Now , since we have found our place, here in a Green Ardeche, in Burzet , our charming village , which is located in the heart of the “Géo Park - Parc Regional des Monts d Ardèche - “ https://lnkd. in/d5BZdrz is a high recognition , UNESCO labeled due to its preservation, geology and sustainability.

Our village is also labeled “ Station Verte” – Green Label - for its quality of life in a preserved & natural environment.

If you live or travel to France for

Last but not least…

holidays, and want to visit one of the most stunning places for nature lovers, in a preserved and protected Parc, the Parc Regional Naturel des Monts d Ardeche France ...here we are!

Pleased to say we are open for business with our first self-catering cottage.

Welcome to a 17th century solid stone house, entirely renovated, close to a fantastic crystal-clear river, natural pools, in a private domaine, and listed with the most famous, most serious professional organization in France, “Gites de France.”

The demand is high and summer is almost fully booked already. Bookings have started already and first guests’ comments are tremendous

I was planning to develop an eco-tourism with sort of cooking school in a near future. – I had this in my mind since

https://www.gites-defrance.com/en/auvergnerhone-alpes/ardeche/ domaine-de-perverangeles-airelles-07g45705 A dedicated Facebook has been also created – Carpe Diem in Ardeche- and will give you better ideas on our area and surroundings https://www.facebook. com/Carpe-Diem-inArdeche--103480201382652 About Bio Garden here?

In our land, here in Ardeche, we have created a new “Bio Garden,”, using all local and natural resources, even watering for the garden is coming from natural spring! And we are in the process of developing new cooking place ‘Atelier D” by fresh picking from our “Bio-Garden” what mother nature has on offer. Even eggs from our hens.

And this for our guests at our further Gite at a later stage – all products will be local and seasonal. The region is rich on offerings!

We have “Green Cuisine or Cuisine with a Conscience “ food which should taste the way it should - simple, local & seasonal, from soil to the plate!

Follow the link below for all details ...

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MEDITERRANEAN LINKS US TOGETHER

BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO

E

mphasizing the huge potential for deepening synergies between Albania and Spain, Ambassador of Spain to the Republic of Albania, Marcos Alonso Alonso, said in an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE that Albania has been a great discovery for him.

Meliá Hotels is working on several projects in Tirana and the coast,” top Spanish diplomat said.

Full interview below:

“I very soon realized that Albania is a crucible of rich traditions, beautiful and varied landscapes where there is a little bit of everything, from the high peaks of the Albanian Alps to the gorgeous beaches washed by two seas, the Adriatic and the Ionian, delicious gastronomy, a high degree of religious harmony and tolerance, and above all a country with extremely welcoming people with a long history of hospitality,” he said.

Assuming the current position last October, Ambassador Alonso is very enthusiastic in further deepening the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the fields of tourism, agriculture, education, culture and others.

“On tourism, there are projects and investments already going on. For instance, and since you mention Spanish companies,

Photos: Embassy of Spain in Tirana, Albania

Recently you assumed your current position as Spanish Ambassador to Albania. What is your general assessment of Albania and the experience you have had so far in our country?

Albania has been a great discovery.

Having devoted most of my career to international organizations – the UN, NATO, Council of Europe and particularly the EU – getting to know Albania has been refreshing, interesting and, I must add, lots of fun.

I very soon realized that Albania is a crucible of rich traditions, beautiful and varied landscapes where there is a little bit of everything, from the high peaks of the Albanian Alps to the gorgeous

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beaches washed by two seas, the Adriatic and the Ionian, delicious gastronomy, a high degree of religious harmony and tolerance, and above all a country with extremely welcoming people with a long history of hospitality.

On top of all that, Albania is in a particular interesting historic moment, about to start the negotiations to achieve the strategic objective of joining the European Union.

Mr. Ambassador, what are the focal issues on your agenda for strengthening the diplomatic and business contacts with Albania?

We must, first of all, take into account the current framework of our relations.

Albania and Spain are already allies in NATO and will be very soon partners in the European Union. We need to prepare for that moment and that is my main task, together with the team of the Embassy in Tirana: to expand the density of relations between Albania and Spain at all levels, political, economic, cultural and people-to-people. For sure, more investment is needed, as well as more cooperation in the touristic sector or more exchanges of students.

An essential aspect in order to boost

our relationship is to increase contacts at high political level; Albania’s Chief Negotiator, Ambassador Mazi, travelled to Madrid on 3-4 June where he had extremely fruitful meetings with Spanish Secretary of State for European Affairs, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Spanish Senate as well as the Director of EU’s Department at the Office of President Sánchez.

Furthermore, I hope that a visit of Prime Minister Rama to Spain can take place very soon; it would be the first official visit of an Albanian Prime Minister to my country, a historic trip, a turning point in our modern relations.

Where do you see the possibility of deepening synergies between Albania and Spain?

Albania and Spain are similar in so many ways that there is huge potential for deepening synergies.

First and foremost, we must work more

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closely with the younger generation.

Not only because they will lead our countries in the future but also for their determination to bring Albania into Europe. It is extremely interesting to listen to young people, they have bright ideas about what needs to be done to push our relation forward. Cooperation, for example, with Albanian Erasmus students who have lived in Spain is extremely enriching; they have good knowledge of both our countries and quite often a clear vision of what needs to be done.

Furthermore, there are many areas in which synergies between Albania and

Spain can be found: tourism, agriculture, education, culture are good examples.

But what is important is Spain’s readiness to support Albania in her path to the EU and shape a greener, more sustainable, digital and inclusive Europe. They are all priorities of my Government and thus of our cooperation with Albania.

Given the reopening of tourism in Albania, how can Spain help with its centurial knowledge in this field? Are Spanish companies looking to better understand the tourism market in Albania, with an interest in investing in hotels?

On tourism, there are projects and investments already going on. For instance, and since you mention Spanish companies, Meliá Hotels is working on several projects in Tirana and the coast.

In any case, much more can be done.

I am very hopeful because there is clear interest and will on both Albanian and Spanish sides.

Albanian Minister of Tourism and Environment, Blendi Klosi, travelled to

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tremendous touristic potential but sustainable tourism is the only way forward, we cannot drain resources but build upon them and protect them.

Spain some weeks ago to take part in FITUR, the renowned International Tourism Trade Fair where he met his Spanish counterpart, Minister Maroto.

On my side, I have been meeting quite a few actors in the touristic sector, learning what they need and how Spain can better contribute to Albania’s touristic sector so that it becomes not just a socio-economic engine, but also fosters the protection of the environment and builds upon your rich natural, historic and gastronomic heritage.

In the framework of #EuropeWeeks2021 - organized by the EU Delegation to Albania last month - I had the opportunity to meet and discuss with tour operators as well as with representatives of municipalities and my conclusion was clear: Albania has

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Spanish language is among the favorite to learn by the Albanian youth. What other learning access can be created besides the existing ones?

I agree with you that Spanish language and culture is very attractive for young Albanians. I keep meeting young people with high interest for our culture, they like it, they enjoy it, and they know a lot about it.

Moreover, Spanish language is also a great asset for those Albanians who learn it and speak it. In a globalized world, we need to think big and knowing Spanish can be of great value, including of economic value; as a matter of fact, in 2050, 10% of the world population will speak Spanish. That is why I am convinced that it would be a very good decision to have Spanish as one of the second foreign languages the Albanian education system would offer.

Furthermore, we are working with the University of Tirana so that it becomes

an official examination centre for Instituto Cervantes’s diplomas of Spanish as a foreign language, the so-called DELE (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera); hopefully we will sign the agreement very soon.

Our Embassy in Tirana is also implementing cultural projects in music, literature or cinema to bring Spanish culture to Albanians. We have projected on-line movies with increasing success, I must say. And a few weeks ago, we closed the Month of Spanish Literature awarding a prize to a talented young Albanian, Xhorxhi Kaçi, who has written a beautiful piece about his memories of a trip to Granada.

What needs to happen for AlbanianSpanish cultural ties to take a boost?

As I mentioned in one of my previous answers, I am confident that our

Embassy will play an important role in bringing our culture to Albania.

Having said that, the real boost will come through a general increase in our contacts and relationships at all levels.

Higher and deeper the contacts will be at political, economic, touristic levels, tighter the cultural ties between Albania and Spain will become. For instance, the more the Albanian students go and study to Spain, the more they will enjoy and bring back Spanish culture to Albania.

I am convinced of the interconnection of all dimension of our common relation.

Of course, we must work directly with cultural projects, but success in other areas will have a positive impact in bringing our two cultures together. After all, the Mediterranean links us together.

“COOPERATION, FOR EXAMPLE, WITH ALBANIAN ERASMUS STUDENTS WHO HAVE LIVED IN SPAIN IS EXTREMELY ENRICHING; THEY HAVE GOOD KNOWLEDGE OF BOTH OUR COUNTRIES AND QUITE OFTEN A CLEAR VISION OF WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE.”

“WE ARE WORKING WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF TIRANA SO THAT IT BECOMES AN OFFICIAL EXAMINATION CENTRE FOR INSTITUTO CERVANTES’S DIPLOMAS OF SPANISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE, THE SO-CALLED DELE (DIPLOMAS DE ESPAÑOL COMO LENGUA EXTRANJERA); HOPEFULLY WE WILL SIGN THE AGREEMENT VERY SOON.”

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Let’s celebrate the National Day of Sweden with music, dance, cooking and more!

JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE

On June 6, the Swedes celebrated their National Day. On this occasion, the Swedish Embassy in Tirana invited everyone to join a “live show to celebrate with Sweden.

The program included the performances of Swedish music stars, such as José González, Léon international music sensation and the super band Amason.

Singer-songwriter José González, one of Sweden’s biggest stars with a billion plus streams on Spotify, performed from his summerhouse in Bohuslän on the Swedish west coast.

With a truly unmistakable voice, Léon came with a gig in a Stockholm studio with some serious ABBA heritage.

Amason, named best alternative pop act at the 2020 Swedish Grammys music awards, performed from the legendary Ingrid studio in Stockholm.

Impressive was to hear Her Highness, Princess and Her Family extending a National Day wish.

Jessica Frej preparing a Swedish potato salad with grilled salmon . Photo: Jessika Strand imagebank.sweden.se

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This unforgettable day was fantastically garnished with emotional choirs and and super kitchen chefs that made our mouths water.

A Little History Behind National Day of Sweden Since 1983, Sweden has celebrated its National Day on 6 June. This is the date on which Gustav Vasa was elected king in 1523, which laid the foundation of Sweden as an independent state. On the same date in 1809, a new, crucial constitution was adopted – an important step towards democracy. Since 2005, the National Day has been a public holiday.

Normally, the Royal Family takes part in a ceremony at Skansen, Stockholm’s open-air museum, on the National Day. The blue-and-yellow Swedish flag is raised, and children in traditional costumes present the King and Queen with bouquets of summer flowers.

Tiktok phenomenon and comedian Liam Kalevi explained with tones of entertainment why the Swedes celebrate National Day and why they have to take use of the sun every time it pops up on the sky. The dance company Cullberg brought a different reality with the part, Cullbergs work from home “.

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196+ events, a Bridge for Decision Makers in Hospitality Industry

BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO

anja Millner, Managing Director of 196+ events GmbH in Vienna elaborates in an exclusive interview with us on the 196+ events as an invitation for “the movers and shakers, the technology players and game changers to speak about the latest developments.”

She explains that 196+ events will focus on the entire cycle of hotel investment to hotel operations and the latest digital innovations and design trends.

Millner reveals that she and her team are planning a 196+ spotlight event in Tirana in 2022.

We are certainly aware that Albania is the last unchartered territory within Europe and the interest of investors and international hospitality brands is high. Therefore we are planning a 196+ spotlight event in Tirana in 2022. The 196+ spotlight series features regional events with a specific focus on a topic or region as part of 196+ events. Watch out for further updates early 2022.

196+ events connect decision makers in the hospitality industry, a business sector where the importance of personal exchange is vital. Therefore, we have created hospitality events for curious minds.

Tanja Millner

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Full interview below: Can you make an overview of the relaunched event business 196+?

The PKF hospitality group has been active in the hospitality investment conference field for almost twenty years with different formats and differently branded conferences.

“hospitality events for curious minds”.

Why this one?

196+ events connect decision makers in the hospitality industry, a business sector where the importance of personal exchange is vital. Therefore, we have created hospitality events for curious minds.

We are inviting the movers and shakers, the technology players and game changers to speak about the latest developments.

Even though the events business has been hit especially hard, we strongly believe that this sector will come back.

So this has been exactly the right time to reinvent and to reorganize our conference activities.

Where is Albania positioned within the plan of 196+ since Albania is the next tourist destination distinguished for some top architects and designers?

We are certainly aware that Albania is the last unchartered territory within Europe and the interest of investors and international hospitality brands is high. Therefore we are planning a 196+ spotlight event in Tirana in 2022. The 196+ spotlight series features regional events with a specific focus on a topic or region as part of 196+ events.

Watch out for further updates early 2022.

With the help of a well-known international branding agency, we developed a new brand for all our conferences: 196+ events.

The Motto worldwide 196+ is

What topics of hospitality investments and innovations are expected to be dealt by 196+?

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We will be looking at the entire cycle of hotel investment to hotel operations and the latest digital innovations and design trends.

welcome and we are looking forward to lots of personal exchanges. We are an industry where personal encounters are vital.

What position does 196+ take within PKF hotelexperts? Does the latter expect to be better positioned and have better connections with the relaunching of 196+?

196+ events is its own division with the PKF hospitality group. 196+ events will provide an independent platform for all stakeholders within the hospitality investment community to meet, from investors to operators to architects to consultants and lawyers. Everybody is

How can Trailblazing Magazine help in this respect projecting the mission of 196+ and creating more awareness about Albania within it?

We would love to have the Trailblazing Magazine as our media partner to attract many Albanian participants for our events, not only in Tirana, but also for our 196+ forum in Vienna which is due to take place on 29 November 2021 with a focus on investment & innovation in CEE and SEE.

FURTHER INFORMATION ON PKF HOTELEXPERTS: PKF hotelexperts is an internationally recognised market leader in hotel consulting and - alongside PKF livingexperts (serviced living consulting) and PKF tourismexperts (tourism consulting) - part of the PKF hospitality group. With 15 offices on all continents and more than 90 years of experience, the PKF hospitality group offers focused consulting services in the areas of hotel, serviced living and tourism investments, including feasibility studies, valuations, operator search, project development, financing and investment consulting, asset management, research & benchmarking as well as strategic consulting. www.pkfhotels.com, www.196plus.com CONTACT PRESS: Martina Rozok | T +49 30 40044681 | M+49 170 2355988 martina.rozok@pkfhotels.com www.pkfhotels.com | www.196plus.com

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Innovation Corpus

ERIK BOER:

A 5000 EUROS GRANT FOR THE BEST TEAM IN THE END OF TIRANA INC.

BY RUDINA HOXHA

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tarting a Student Incubator in Albania with multiple universities was always top of mind for me. That’s how Erik Boer starts the exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE following Tirana Inc. project.

When the invitation came to him from Tirana to contribute in this regard, he did not think twice.

“For me personally, it is amazing to see, how we could build this Tirana Inc. project despite of the pandemic obstacles. I am impressed with all the university leaders and professors and EU for Innovation that took the time and created the energy to make this happen,” he said in this interview.

According to Boer, Tirana Inc. Is something new among different initiatives that are happening in Albania.

“It puts the focus to the students, their entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and their ambition. Tirana Inc. selects 10 teams to support and mentor in their entrepreneurial journey,” he said.

Erik Boer is the founder of Venture Labs and director of Amsterdam Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE Incubator).

ACE is an Amsterdam based incubator located at Amsterdam Science Park Campus at the Startup Village. Erik is on the board of directors of many organizations. He has a major in Political Science from VU university Amsterdam

and University of Amsterdam.

Erik, please take us back to the very beginning of Tirana Inc. How did it all start and how do you predict this model to work out over time?

It was somewhere in the spring of 2019 that my phone was ringing and Valbona Koci phoned. She was wondering if we would be interested to get connected to EU for Innovation and share our Amsterdam experience on stimulating entrepreneurship with Albanian universities. I was immediately thrilled about this opportunity and from this point on we got more and more involved in different activities to build capacity at Albanian universities. To start a student incubator in Albania with multiple universities was always top of mind for me. But you need to learn more about the local context first, meet people and see if this is a really good idea at all.

So, first we had meetings, discussions, and workshops out of which slowly have grown personal relationships, mutual understanding, and trust. We focused on the idea of universities becoming entrepreneurial, on teaching entrepreneurship and connecting universities to the wider ecosystem.

For me personally, it is amazing to see, how we could build this Tirana Inc. project despite of the pandemic obstacles. I am impressed with all the

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university leaders and professors and EU for Innovation that took the time and created the energy to make this happen.

Can you share some numbers about the current state of Tirana Inc? Like number of startups, raised capital, number of exits, etc?

We received 43 applications in total.

What we can say for sure is that the interest has been high.

The students have responded very well through social media channels and by participating actively in the info sessions.

The winners, selected around mid-June, are as follows:

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Belinda Myteberi and Amela Rahimi) I-Move (Xhoni Pashollari, Anxhelo Xhediku, Erigers Mamoci and Daniel Leka) DigiCaptivatiors (Meri Demerxhiu, Doriana Demerxhiu) The Aliens (Dionis Alliu, Amoreld Mija and Xhesjana Brahimi) Parklink (Grasjela Qyli) Aces (Xhino Hasani, Rea Lybeshari, Anxhela Boshnjaku) Healthy Mind (Ana Limani) Latte Team (Hygerta Pjeshka, Artemisa Pjeshka and Alba Pjeshka) Golden Devs (Sonia Memaj, Diona Halilaj, Stiliana Jano and Kevin Kurtaja) Pro Mind (Ysiana Agalliu, Seldjon Duro, Laura Dalipi and Megi Kaziu) Regarding the raised capital, we are currently creating partnerships with different ecosystem actors in Albania. There will be a 5000 EUROs grant for the best team in the end of the program.

entrepreneurial journey.

The applications are opened for students from all the universities.

Tirana Inc. gives the opportunity to start up teams to grow and succeed by providing free or low-cost workspace, training, mentorship, expertise, and access to investors. They will work around other entrepreneurial businesses, often with a similar focus as theirs.

“But what we can say for sure is that the interest has been high”

Three Sixty (Lisbora Likaj, Nertil Zhuri,

What are the benefits of Tirana Inc. for the young Albanian startups? What differentiates Tirana Inc.

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The why is simple: You should apply if you want to turn your idea into a business and if you are ambitious enough for this.

from most other accelerators out here? Why and which startups should apply at Tirana Inc. Tirana Inc. Is something new among different initiatives that are happening in Albania. It puts the focus to the students, their entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and their ambition. Most of the similar initiatives are often in the forms of two days competition and few ideas get selected after that to incubate their idea, meanwhile Tirana Inc. selects 10 teams to support and mentor in their

What are the thoughts about the ideas presented by the teams of Albanian universities and how far do you think they might go when it comes from the idea presentation to the market validation? What are some of the major features you are spotting?

The Albanian students are creative, talented so we have high expectations that their ideas will one day will turn into successful businesses.

Most of the ideas tend to be related with technology, in the form of platforms of applications that give solutions to several problems they face in their everyday life. We did, however, encourage students with non-technology

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ideas and social business to apply as well. An entrepreneurial attitude can be very helpful in solving Albania’s wicked societal challenges as well.

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proactive to create their own innovative solutions.

What are your plans and goals for the next 3 years regarding Tirana Inc? Tirana Inc. is a pilot project, and our vision is that in 3 years’ time, Tirana Inc will be the main destinations for ambitions students with a business idea. We envision that the number of partner universities might increase, and Tirana Inc. will have a dedicated location where all talented and ambitions teams can work and grow their business.

“We saw a high number of applications”

We saw a high number of applications with ideas related to tourism development. The Albanian students do pay attention to what is missing in the market and are

TIRANA INC. IS SOMETHING NEW AMONG DIFFERENT INITIATIVES THAT ARE HAPPENING IN ALBANIA. IT PUTS THE FOCUS TO THE STUDENTS, THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS, CREATIVITY, AND THEIR AMBITION.

REGARDING THE RAISED CAPITAL, WE ARE CURRENTLY CREATING PARTNERSHIPS WITH DIFFERENT ECOSYSTEM ACTORS IN ALBANIA. THERE WILL BE A 5000 EUROS GRANT FOR THE BEST TEAM IN THE END OF THE PROGRAM.

We are recruiting a local team of people that will be willing to take up the responsibility to make it happen and make Tirana Inc. sustainable. We are engaging different levels of partners, like business coaches, mentors, experts in different areas, governments, business chambers, investors, etc.

Tirana Inc. is about to unleashing the pool of talented students with entrepreneurial ambitions.

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Alpine Bees

MORE INNOVATIVE THANKS TO EU CHALLENGE FUND

R

inaldo Gjolaj,

to the European market. Due to the

Team Member of

support of EU Challenge Fund, he said,

the Family Owned

“The innovation that we managed to

Business – Alpine

introduce into some of the processes

Bees, is another

and products, differentiates us from

winner of Swedish

many other beekeepers and helped us improve the performance and health of

EU Challenge Fund.

bee families.”

He shares with TRAILBLAZING FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:

MAGAZINE how he was involved in the business of bees and how crucial was the moment Alpine Bees was chosen one

What did you motivate to go into

of the beneficiaries of the EU Challenge

the business of bees and honey

Fund.

and promoting them through your startup?

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Gjolaj says that Alpine Bees is now

A family and provincial tradition was the

dealing with the necessary certification

first initiator for me to deal with bees

and licensing procedures to export

and honey, and turn it into a business

and increase capacity to respond

where I make money. My relatives and

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family have kept bees for generations,

of honey, and other bee products.

capacity to respond to the European

really very good. It helps the business

but what pushed me to head into this

Multiflower, chestnut, sage or thyme

market.

to maintain the performance and

business was after my dad bought 2

honey takes its name from the flowers

bees in 2016 and got 70 kg of honey.

in which the bee takes the nectar which

Please how should the consumers

The innovation that we managed to

then turns it into honey. Royal Jelly

recognize a pure honey, which is not

introduce into some of the processes

Please can you share with us some

is one of the products with the most

adulterated?

and products, differentiates from

major facts about your business. How

extraordinary health values. Pollen and

To be 100% safe, only laboratory tests

many other beekeepers and helped us

propolis are other basic

can help but the consumers, before

improve the performance and health of

products produced by

buying honey, should have in mind

bee families.

bees with great health

two things: natural honey should have

and nutritional values.

a lot of specific aroma and taste that

Describe your most exciting

varies depending on the type of honey.

entrepreneurial moment.

would you define the Alpine Bee honey and how much honey do you produce yearly?

Do you export it?

Alpine Bees has 2 bee parks, in Malësi e Madhe and in Dukagjin.

We get some types

“Royal Jelly is one of the products with the most extraordinary health values”

more of other capacities and quality.

Bee Venom is the most

Consumers should be careful when they

extraordinary and

want to buy bee products. They should

Undoubtedly the most emotional

expensive product that

be in glass containers and should have

moment was when Alpine Bees was

bees produce. The value

labels that explain the product, the

chosen the winner of the Challenge

goes up to $ 20,000 / kg, obviously

business and the place where it was

Fund, where the business was praised

extracted in limited quantities

produced. To be even more secure on

for what it had done and for its vision for

and used in elite cosmetics and

the label, there should be a contact

the future. That was really exciting.

pharmaceuticals. Australian scientists

number or social networks where the

have recently proven that bee venom

consumer can look at the processes of

kills aggressive breast cancer cells.

extracting products and daily work with them.

Due to some weather conditions and

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not only the amount of honey taken

How crucial was the EU Challenge

is not very large but it is very high

Fund support in your startups

quality.

development?

We are now dealing with the

We had a difficult season due to both

necessary certification and licensing

weather and pandemic conditions and

procedures to export and increase

the support of EU Challenge Fund was

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looking into tourism. Hotelschool seemed the best option to acquire all the tourism skills as well as some more “craftsmanship” food & beverage skills which give additional benefits. It turned out to be a great decision!

E

dwin Wijkhuijs, Cluster General Manager of Sheraton Jeddah Hotel & Red Sea Beach Club Jeddah shares

with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE his experience of dealing with the challenges of renovating and opening stunning hotels and properties and how rewarding has been for him

Edwin Wijkhuijs: ARABIAN HOSPITALITY IS LEGENDARY, I CONTINUE TO BE AMAZED EVERY DAY

BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO

professionally and personally to deal with iconic hotel brands.

Full interview below: 1. What motivated you to go into the hotel industry? How would you describeyour journey? a. I’ve been interested in travel and exploring new countries and places from a young age. Therefore when exploring tertiary education options I was

b. The journey has been very rewarding both professionally and personally.

It has enriched the lives of myself and my family tremendously. When starting out as a part time waiter serving traditional Dutch pancakes in a small restaurant deep in the forest during my studies at Hotelschool I could have never dreamed where this industry would take me and which unique opportunities and experiences I would come across in the far corners of the world.

2. You were in Sheraton Jeddah Hotel in Saudi Arabia and you left to Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa in United Arab Emirates. What were your learnings and challenges to open and operate a complex Resort and Spa? a. After 5 years as manager of the luxury Pulitzer Hotel in Amsterdam I moved to Sheraton Jeddah where the main task

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T O U R I S M / H O S P I TA L I T Y

was to change the entire set up

journey a great

on this period with great satisfaction.

completely revitalized with many

and renovate the hotel. This was a

opportunity came up to open two new

The one learning and advice I can

new amenities added to the lobby,

challenging and rewarding experience

properties in the United Arab

give anyone opening a resort is to start

and I was given the chance to

the awareness and sales campaigns early

implement these changes in my

so a steady client base is ready in the

“old” hotel and complete the

b. Opening the Sheraton

source countries to

last of the pending renovations,

Sharjah Beach Resort was

sell the hotel when it opens.

making the Sheraton Jeddah one of

which included expanding the beach resort operation and renovate rooms as well as the entire back of the house.

When this was completed area

“This was a challenging and rewarding experience”

Emirates.

probably one of the most challenging tasks I have undertaken. With careful planning and execution it was a very successful

responsibilities were

the first completely new on-brand 3. Can you talk more about of

Sheratons with the new standards in

your past and present and the

the Middle East. It’s a great honor to

experience of renovating and

execute these changes in this iconic

bringing the Sheraton Jeddah

hotel and with this iconic brand,

Hotel to the latest Sheraton

of which I have been a part since

added overseeing the three Starwood

opening of a stunning property. Within a

Jeddah hotels and two new hotels

few months of opening the results were

Standards?

starting as a room service trainee in

opening in Medina. At the end of that

beating all expectations and I look back

a. After the Marriott – Starwood

1988 in the Sheraton Brussels. The

merger the Sheraton brand was

new look Sheraton Jeddah rooms

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are magnificent and the new lobby,

I truly enjoy exploring the traditions

meeting facilities, ladies fitness and

of the Middle East and Saudi Arabia

F&B venues will be equally stunning

in particular.

oncecompleted by late summer.

During the covid-19 epidemic I have

5. The Sheraton Jeddah Hotel and

such a great opportunity and is very

the Beach Resort are a landmark

much appreciated by our guests and

since many years for the local

local clientele, many of whom have

community. What experience can

been coming here since they were

you share with us about this great

children and are now coming back

bond?

with their own children!

4. Which aspects of Arabian

had the pleasure of seeing many

culture and traditions do you

new parts of the country as overseas

enjoy the most and which ones do

anchor on the North Corniche for

b. Our beach club is another unique

travel was restricted and it has

you find most difficult to adjust

decades and gives residents and

and completely separate part of the

been an eye opening experience

to?

return visitors alike a feeling of

operation. In fact it is a 30km drive

to see what Saudi Arabia has to

comfort.

between Sheraton Jeddah and the

a. Arabian hospitality is legendary

offer. As a hotelier I can also see the

To give this icon such a major

Red Sea Beach Club. During my

and I continue to be amazed and

tremendous tourism potential of the

makeover whilst retaining the unique

tenure the beach club has expanded

humbled by the genuine care and

country.

flavor and qualities of the property is

from 73 rooms to 101 rooms and the

a. The Sheraton Jeddah has been an

warmth I experience on a daily basis.

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many members of Marriott’s “quarter

milestone of 5 years!

century club” with over 25 years of

restaurant, dive center and beach

How are they contributing to the

areas were renovated and enlarged.

excellence of the Hotel? Can you

The beach is obviously very popular

enumerate one the single best

during the school and summer

quality that employees possess

holidays. Business people on longer

that make your property be a

visits also like to stay on the beach

landmark among the

and the resort has found its niche

competition.

with the diplomats from Riyadh

a. With the hotel reaching the ripe

who like to relax on the beach and

age of 31, most of our pre-opening

snorkel during the weekends.

associates are now enjoying a wellearned retirement. I can tell you we

6. Let’s talk a bit about the

have had quite a few retirement

employees of the Hotel. How

parties with fun anecdotes these

many of them are working since

past 2 years! Of course we still have

service. We are extremely proud

7. In your opinion how important

of our long serving team who are

is an International brand like

the heart and soul of the hotel, and

SHERATON among other brands for

indeed make the Sheraton Jeddah

an owner /investor return of their

what it is. Working in an industry

investments?

with a traditionally high labor

a. In todays competitive environment

turnover it is so pleasing that our

I believe it’s crucial to be affiliated

hotel enjoys such a stable workforce.

with a trusted brand that suits the

Over the past few years we have

property and its environment. In our

“We are extremely proud of our long serving”

case the Sheraton brand, being one of the first to enter the Middle East and keeping such a loyal following in the region makes us continue to stand out and continue to perform very well even among the many new openings all around us. This is even more apparent during the current

also recruited and developed many

pandemic when guests and bookers

young Saudi nationals as part of

are looking for reassurance and

the government localization drive

comfort. Being part of the Marriott

and Marriott’s signature “Tahseen”

International system and the Bonvoy

development program. This talent

loyalty scheme is adding even more

is now quickly becoming an asset to

benefits for our guests, driving

the hotel and Marriott International.

more business through the door and

The first ones are already

therefore being invaluable to the

approaching the first long service

hotel owners and investors.

the pre-opening of the Hotel?

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MA Studio & Partners: 14.

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What differentiate us in 20 years of experience are our principles

KLODIANA TACI

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ARCHITECTURE

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FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:

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How can you define your modelling architecture style, what

make them happy at the end, we could consider it a failure. There are a lot of architects, whose most

Following your split from

makes your style different from

another well-known architecture

your competitors?

studio where you were pioneers

There are not anymore distinguished

their personal artistic ego, without

and also well-known for several

styles in architecture. Architects are

the human consideration at all. Not

projects, how is MA Studio &

globally travelling by decades in a

our way of doing architecture, for

Partners doing and looking at

modernism, that is always and more

sure.

the future?

a unified megapolitan language

Indeed a new challenge for MA

of architecture. What we think

n the first anniversary of her own

Studio & Partners. We did a lot

differentiate us in 20 years of career

company, the CEO of MA Studio

over the 20 years at DEA Studio,

are the principles we are based on.

successfully completed and any

& Partners, Klodiana Taçi sits with

contributing to the country with a

TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE to talk

lot of important projects for public

Always our design concepts start

In one year, we, as MA Studio &

of the many achievements, the latest

& private spaces & buildings. It’s

with the psychology of the people,

Partners l.t.d, did a lot, from many

– the ranking on second place in the

kind of interesting sensation, it

who will live our designed and

masterplans, residential buildings,

international competition “Concert

feels like you are bringing another

constructed buildings. If we do not

Hall Gërmia” for one of the most

child into the world while your first

residential complexes to touristic resorts. After

important new buildings in Prishtina,

lovely creation is grown up enough

Kosovo.

to fly by himself in its proper life.

of their designs were permeated by

Can you mention some of the projects your Studio has other which is coming soon?

designing a lot of implemented public spaces

The new one has all the love of With a distinguished professional

the first, you have all the attention

experience on her shoulders, Taçi

on growing him up strongly, but

explains what is her company’s way

even conscious of having a lot of

of doing architecture while reveals

experience to do it perfectly. On its

the “diamond” which was added to

first anniversary, it looks a healthy

the company’s portfolio of projects

creation that brought us a lot of

this year.

joys and for sure many and many

and waterfronts with DEA Studio, with MA Studio & Partners, we added another important project to our career with Livadh

others in the future.

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Yes, it is. As a matter of fact, after

waterfront, which will be partly ready for this touristic season and

many important challenges with

fully completed in the next one.

DEA Studio in the past, it is the

Ultimately, we achieved a very,

appropriate continuity with the new

very important professional award,

company.

ranked as 2-nd in the international Our proposal for Concert Hall

competition “Concert Hall Gërmia” for one of the most important new buildings in Prishtina, Kosovo.

Could you give us an overview regarding this project? It looks like an important

“In one year, we, as MA Studio & Partners l.t.d, did a lot.”

Gërmia in Prishtina is a very good opportunity for Prishtina to bring back to life a noted building of the past, with a fresh contemporary impulse, that could look clearly to the future. This

sign in your career with the new

is precisely the key conceptual

Company MA Studio & Partners.

principle of our architectural intervention. The “yesterday” of a building designed in the ‘70s left as a trace for generations brings back the identical geometries of the most important part of the original facade into the

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new design. The new building

city center areas, transiting the most

extensions with a completely new

important city public space

and important function also looks

“Skanderbeg” Square. Almost all

toward the future, interpreting the

atrophied spaces today become active

integration of original facade with

and the Concert Hall Germia building

transparent glass modules inspired

itself will be the protagonist of the

by the geometry of the aluminum

urban space with 360° experience

pattern in respect of the original

with all that importance such a

design.

building should deserve.

The transition between two epochs

What do you think of all the

comes as a fusion interpretation in

projects booming in Albania

the proposal.

especially in Tirana from the high

Above all, our intervention is urban,

rise towers to the new impressive

connecting in the shortest way the

buildings?

South-West with the North-East

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creativity, which

Developments in Tirana are coming

Are the investors looking “fast

in the maturity period when the city

forward” into the Country future

has for years afforded a lot of growth

of mix Tourism and business?

problems. The big infrastructure is

It is really a very good moment

this goes beyond,

under construction and will facilitate

for our profession, but the most

you should be

the overloading traffic of the city

important for the country. As it

inspired.

center. On the other hand, there are

looks, we are passing in this new

ambitious completed buildings and

decade from a long and hard

Mainly the

others on the way that will enrich

transition, from the state controlled

creation is

the city skyline and the European

to a free market economy. The

instinctive, but

metropolis feeling. Who is coming

developments in years have been

well connected

back to Albania after a long time

traumatic, but after 30 years of

with the program

is perceiving the distinguished

sufferings, the first results are

of the project,

changes of the city and its European

looming. The new built national

specifics of the

image.

road infrastructure has created a

site and your

capillary interconnection among the

organic approach.

will distinguish your proposal and

cities, facilitating even the tourism

and Saranda will be crucial.

purposes. There

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“Our profession is for sure a discipline”

What

would

are two main

Where do you

objectives to be

get all these new

achieved by the

inspiration for your

Government,

creative ideas for

which will

your projects as you

stimulate the big

have been showing?

change of the

Our profession is for

tourism and fuel

sure a discipline, you go through

the economy of

urban analysis of the site; you are

fromhard study and work, but it is

the country,

called to intervene, but at the end

the only attitude that will make the

Airports of Vlora

you should explode in you the

difference for a successful career.

you recommend to the new entrepreneurs in architecture and design “start ups”?

Self-confidenc e. For sure it springs

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S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

Finland ranks first in international sustainable development comparison

PRIME MINISTER SANNA MARIN, WHO ALSO CHAIRS THE FINNISH NATIONAL COMMISSION ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, EMPHASIZES THAT FINLAND’S FIRST PLACE RANKING IS THE RESULT OF LONG-TERM WORK AND THE CONTRIBUTION OF ALL OF FINNISH SOCIETY.

or the first time,

According to the ranking, Finland

Finland has been

has achieved or is close to achieving

ranked number one

the UN Sustainable Development

in an international

Goals related to poverty alleviation,

comparison

health, education, water, energy,

of sustainable

reducing inequality, peace, and

development. The esteemed ranking

the rule of law. Finland’s greatest

by the UN and the Bertelsmann

challenges are related to the fight

Foundation is published annually,

against climate change, the need

and Finland has also been in the

for more sustainable consumption

top three in earlier years, together

and production patterns and halting

with Denmark and Sweden. The

biodiversity loss.

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comparison assesses countries’ progress on implementing the

Prime Minister Sanna Marin, who

Finland’s first place ranking is the

Development Solutions Network and

2030 Agenda for Sustainable

also chairs the Finnish National

result of long-term work and the

the German Bertelsmann Foundation

Development and its Sustainable

Commission on Sustainable

contribution of all of Finnish society.

on Monday 14 June. Minister

Development Goals.

Development, emphasizes that

“Credit for this recognition is due to

for Development Cooperation

all Finns, who work persistently to

and Foreign Trade Ville Skinnari

build a more sustainable society. We

represented Finland at the virtual

are proud of our ranking, but we still

release event on Monday, 14th of

have a lot to do in order to achieve

June.

all of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The most crucial

Skinnari highlights the importance

thing now is figuring out how we

of the Nordic welfare model in the

can safeguard our wellbeing within

results of the ranking: Sweden,

the limits of our planet’s carrying

Norway and Denmark are also

capacity in the future,” says Marin.

among the top ten countries.

COVID-19 pandemic has increased

Skinnari stresses that, in the post-

inequality

pandemic world, Finland and other

The results were published in a

wealthy countries need to focus on

report by the UN’s Sustainable

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F

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supporting the most disadvantaged worldwide. The core idea of the 2030 Agenda is that no one should be left behind.

“The pandemic has led to a global increase in extreme poverty and inequality and has weakened gender equality. We need to make sure that everyone stays on board with the development and that we are able to close the gap between the most successful and worst-performing countries.”

FINLAND PRAISED FOR PARTICIPATORY APPROACH

participates in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This past spring, the Finnish National Commission on Sustainable Development received the international Catalyst 2030 Award for sustainable development.

The Commission brings together a broad range of stakeholders from different areas of society.

“A participatory approach has been an important part of Finland’s work on sustainable development for several decades. We are building a sustainable society together with the state, municipalities, businesses and organisations. Every Finn’s contribution is important,” Skinnari says.

Finland has received international

Courtesy of Finnish Government

praise for how society as a whole

https://valtioneuvosto.fi/

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Fisheyes & Aqua Culture Tour BY: FABJOLA ARAPI *

M

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ussels, sea

mussels not only in terms of water

bass, carp,

temperature, but also the proper

mullet, and

level of salt it features.

others are species that

Along Butrint Lake, you will find

are served

tourist guides that offer walks on the

everywhere on the Southern coast of

lake, to see the cultivation of the

Albania and in some other areas of

lake mussel and fish species.

the country, and when served, they

Also on the shores of Shengjin, Vlora

are always accompanied by white

and Durres, you will find aquaculture

wine.

farms which offer guides for tourists.

These guides are realised by making

If you taste our mussels, you might

use of boats along the coastline,

well say you have tasted the queen

where different marine species are

of freshwater, you have tasted what

cultivated.

the inhabitants of these areas call the Queen of Butrint Lake.

During the trip, tourists have the opportunity to explore areas

Albania has two main points for

of unique natural and cultural

mussel production, one in Butrint

attractions, such as the magnificent

and the other in Shengjin. Butrint

Butrint National Park. The area

has the potential to produce

around the ancient city of Butrint,

over 10,000 tons of mussels per

in Southern Albania, is home to a

year, while Shengjin has smaller

number of globally endangered

production capacity, but offers high

species. Also, this area has a rich

productivity levels for other species.

cultural history that justifies its

Production at Butrint Lagoon is

recognition as a UNESCO World

rooted in a long tradition, while the

Heritage Site.

locals consider the lagoon as the ideal place for the production of

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*Expert of Rural Development

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S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

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FASHION REVOLUTION,

a New Way of Thinking Around Fashion, Consumption and Production If we would just keep the clothes three times longer, we would actually reduce the negative climate impact by 60 %.

BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO At the end of Fashion Revolution, the first event of this kind in Albania, dedicated to sustainable fashion,

“It was fantastic to see the variety of people in this event.

I think that was the biggest

the brain behind this event, the

success of it,” Håstad said.

Ambassador of Sweden to Albania, H.E. Elsa Håstad, gave an exclusive

According to her, Albania can find

interview to TRAILBLAZING

inspiration on sustainable fashion

MAGAZINE stressing how important

in Sweden, as an internationally

is for Albania in a near and long

advanced example but even in

run to embrace a new thinking

some local champions such as Hana

about fashion, consumption and

Vintage Shop.

production.

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FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:

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want to

away from fast fashion, quick

buy a lot of things, you

production, too many clothes, too

event recently. What can you highlight about it please?

What is your personal relation

cheap or in bad conditions, then we

are happy that you have money to

I think the main highlight of this

with sustainable fashion? Is it an

start to get interested in sustainable

spend, you can afford things while

event was that it was a success.

early one or has been developed

fashion. And I think this journey was

from the environmental prospective,

So many people came, from all

over the years?

equal to my personal journey as

that is of course very dangerous and

the strata and professions, from

Well, my personal relation I think

Swedish journey.

a catastrophe. So, we need to stop

decision-makers on municipal

that behavior. We need to introduce

level to business owners from all

And I consider this

something that is attractive for

over Albania, to big companies

is the journey that

people who love fashion like myself.

from Shkodra city, from Dibra and

Albania needs to start

So, Fashion Revolution event was

others. Also just trendy, fashionable

because what we did

a way to introduce a new way

people, who understand that

during the Fashion

of thinking around fashion and

this is something new as well as

Revolution event

consumption and production.

vintage shop (second hand shops)

is like the relation Sweden has. It is developing because the more we understand that we need to be environmentally

“We need to move away from fast fashion”

representatives who introduced

was to kick off that

conscious, the more implicit we get in sustainable

journey for Albania. Because I am

Fantastic!

the concept of second-hand. It

fashion. When we as a country

convinced that Albania is now in a

You organized Fashion Revolution

was fantastic to see the variety of

understand that we need to move

sort of transition phase where you

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people. I think that was the biggest

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success of this event.

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you produce your clothes. It is also

event. Local champions could also

it is an attitude, it is everything. It is

about labor conditions, being a

be an inspiration.

about production, raw material and about changing behavior among us,

Also representatives from EU

responsible business, responsible

Delegation and UN took part in this

company and supporting gender

What are the main obstacles you

the consumers. So, I think we need

event showing their support for such

equalities. I think Sweden is a great

see in the sustainable fashion

to work on all levels and we need to

projects.

inspiration for that.

sector?

create awareness about this. When

I think that one of the problems is

Albania becomes an EU member

In your view, where Albanians can

But you already have some

that people are attracted to the

country, this will be something that

find the best inspiration about

interested companies in Albania

fast fashion. It is a very polluting

Albania needs to be attentive to

sustainable fashion?

such as vintage shops. So, I met

industry. You have pollution all

because it needs to be a competitive

Well, I think that internationally,

a lady, who was producing out of

the way, during the production,

country. I strongly think that

Sweden is very advanced in this

second-hand clothes. So, I think we

during the transportation. Then,

Albania can be a competitive and a

regard. If you are interested, you can

can find some local champions in

one problem is that people choose

sustainable business country.

google around. Sweden provides

Albania and they are worth to be

clothes to be worn over a short time

a lot of information on sustainable

searched and worth to be supported.

and then they threw them away. If

business, what is it, what we are

Say, Hana Vintage which is a shop in

we would just keep them three times

talking about. It is not only how

Albania. The lady talked about the

longer, we would actually reduce the

importance of sustainability in this

negative climate impact by 60 %. So,

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8 of the Most Beautiful Desert Resorts in the UAE

by Lauren Fletcher

Dubai

Bab Al Shams

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Set among the sand dunes, this rustic-chic desert oasis is just a 45-minute drive from Dubai. A split-level, super-sized swimming pool sits at the centre of the resort, lined with red loungers, a swim-up bar and a huge rain shower. Enjoy breakfast and lunch at the all-day dining restaurant, Al

Your Arabian adventure starts here…

Dinner in the dunes, alfresco spa experiences and swimming under the stars are all on the agenda at these luxe desert resorts in the UAE…

Forsan, and for dinner don’t miss a dining experience at Al Hadheerah, where authentic Arabic cuisine is served with a side of belly dancing, live music, and horse and camel shows. The resort may be remote, but you won’t be bored thanks to an array of activities on offer, from falconry and horse riding to archery and desert drives.

Bab Al Shams, Al Qudra Road, Dubai, from Dhs700 per night, room only. Tel: (04) 809 6100. babalshams.com

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Al Maha

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2

An hour out of Dubai you’ll find Al Maha Desert Resort. This stunning desert oasis is home to individual villas complete with private pools, a main resort area where you’ll find all-day dining restaurant Al Diwaan, and a relaxing spa featuring single and couple treatment rooms. Guests can while away the day at their private pool, or head to the picturesque outdoor pool overlooking the sprawling desert dunes. Check in for a luxury staycation here, and don’t be surprised to greet your neighbours – Arabian Oryx and gazelles – as you enjoy breakfast on your alfresco terrace.

Al Maha Desert Resort, Al Ain Road, Dubai, from Dhs2,695 per night.

Tel: (04) 832 9900. marriott.com

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Abu Dhabi

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3

Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Hidden among the sea of rolling, flame-orange dunes of the Empty Quarter, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab is one of the UAE’s best-loved Arabian escapes.

A secluded desert oasis, there are 140 rooms, 14 suites and 52 pool villas on offer, all decorated with traditional arabesque touches with endless vistas out across the dunes. Separated from the main resort, the rooms are described as ‘secluded desert sanctuaries’, each with private pool.

Anantara Qasr Al Sarab, Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs1,742 per night. Tel: (02) 886 2088. anantara.com

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4 Telal Resort Al Ain

This rustic-luxe resort in Al Ain overlooks a natural conservation area, with uninterrupted views of the desert planes providing postcard-worthy backdrop. Decor is Emirati-inspired and guests can look forward to traditional artwork, arabesque touches and timeless local details across the rooms, villas and suites. Accommodation ranges from deluxe rooms to a three-bedroom villa with private pool and jacuzzi. For a relaxing stay, book a treatment at the spa or kick back in the cosy library. Those with a passion for adventure can enjoy ATV drives, ziplines or a desert safari.

Telal Resort Al Ain, Al Ain, from Dhs968 per night. Tel: (03) 702 0000. telalresort.ae

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Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

Drawing inspiration from a historic village, this Arabian-style desert resort sprawls over 22,000 square metres of tranquil desert. Comprising 13 villas with private pools, 90 traditional guest bedrooms, and six restaurants and bars, Al Wathba promises an idyllic escape. There’s a big focus on wellness here, with a 1000-square-metre pool and luxury spa that offers treatments and facilities such as hammams, crystal salt saunas and a dedicated cryo treatment room.

Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Al Wathba District, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs833. Tel: (02) 204 4444. marriott.com

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Ras Al Khaimah

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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

Sharjah

Mysk Kingfisher Retreat

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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is set among the beauty of a 1,235-acre protected reserve. Experience tranquility, picturesque

Located in Kalba, on the UAE’s east coast, Mysk Kingfisher Retreat

scenery and rich culture in the Bedouin-styled villas, which come with

overlooks the Indian Ocean and features 20 luxury tents complete with

private pools and decks, lounge areas and breathtaking desert views. For

private plunge pools. Decked out in natural, calming hues for maximum

the adventurous traveller, book a desert camel trek, a private archery lesson

relaxation, the rooms come with modern amenities while still keeping a

or bird-watching session, or just head out on a nature walk and soak in the

pared-back coastal look. Chill by the fire pit at the main tent, or make your

surroundings. The desert resort boasts four dining venues including the

way to the spa space, where a selection of treatments are available. The

farm-to-table Farmhouse, all-day dining at Kaheela, the open-sky Moon Bar

neighbouring mangroves are home to a turtle breeding area, as well as

and the relaxed Moorish lounge.

many rare species of birds. For something a little more fast-paced, kayak or paddleboard, try your hand at archery at the nearby Kalba Absolute

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, Wadi Khadija, Ras Al

Adventure Camp, or take to the mountains for a hike.

Khaimah, from Dhs2,212 per night, Tel: (07) 206 7777. ritzcarlton.com Mysk Kingfisher Retreat, Khor Kalba, Sharjah, from Dhs1,900. myskhotels.com 98

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Color and Name , JUST NEED TO

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We are the New 99.99% Albanian APPROACH to

Hotel /Hospitality Consulting and Hotel Operation Management.

We the J.P Hospitality.EU. are Albanians with International experience associated with partners whose expertise transcends 100 years of experience.

We are ready provide to you the Hotel, Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure consultancy to any project starting from a financial feasibility to a successful Grand Opening.

Mysk Al Badayer Retreat

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AS Hotel operators, we can assure you and the International Chains the best expertise and dedicated performance with fully trained team tailored to your product.

The NEW ERA for the tourism industry is here.

Al Badayer Oasis by Mysk, Sharjah’s luxury glamping resort is the perfect

The choice is yours, continue the same old way or give us the opportunity to

staycation spot if what you’re looking for is adventure, serenity, and a

show you the new way to success and sustainable Hotel/Hospitality

dose of Emirati culture. One of the most eco-minded desert resorts in the

Business.

UAE, Al Badayer is located inside a traditional Arabian fort but with all the modern comforts you need. The resort also offers customised desert experiences such as dune bashing, quad biking, horse riding, and desert safaris.

Al Badayer Oasis, Sharjah, room rates start from Dhs600.

OUR SERVICES Consultancy, Brand & Management Selection, Hotel Brand Structure, Pre-opening and Hotel Operating PR-MEDIA, INTERNATIONAL LEGAL CONSULTANCY Unexpected Changes can be a reward or a failure, it depends of your choice. We

Tel: (06) 556 0777. myskhotels.com Images: Supplied/Social Courtesy of whatson.ae 100

provide you rewarding Experiences.

For more, write to us at: jose.pinto@jphospitality.eu

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NATURE AS A ROLE MODEL: LUFTHANSA GROUP AND BASF ROLL OUT SHARKSKIN

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• FROM 2022, LUFTHANSA CARGO WILL EQUIP ALL BOEING 777 FREIGHTERS WITH AEROSHARK • INNOVATIVE SURFACE TECHNOLOGY FROM LUFTHANSA TECHNIK AND BASF IMPROVES FUEL EFFICIENCY AND HELPS AIRLINES TO REACH SUSTAINABILITY TARGETS

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estimates a drag reduction of more

of Deutsche Lufthansa AG with

than one percent. For the entire

responsibility for sustainability. “We

fleet of ten aircraft, this translates to

have always played a leading role in

annual savings of around 3,700 tons

introducing environmentally friendly

of kerosene and just under 11,700

technologies. The new sharkskin

tons of CO2 emissions, which is the

technology for aircraft shows

equivalent of 48 individual freight

what strong and highly innovative

flights from Frankfurt to Shanghai.

partners can achieve collectively

he lower the frictional

the aerodynamics on flow-related

resistance of an aircraft

parts of the aircraft. This means

“Responsibility for the environment

us to achieve our goal of climate

in the air, the lower

that less fuel is needed overall.

and society is a key strategic topic

neutrality by 2050.”

the fuel consumption.

For Lufthansa Cargo’s Boeing

for us,” says Christina Foerster,

Using nature as a role

777F freighters, Lufthansa Technik

Member of the Executive Board

for the environment. This will help

“The aviation industry is facing

model, the aviation industry has

similar challenges to the chemical

been intensively researching ways to

industry: ongoing progress

reduce aerodynamic drag for many

must be made with climate

years. Now Lufthansa Technik and

protection despite high energy

BASF have succeeded in making

requirements. By collaborating

the breakthrough as part of a joint

closely and successfully combining

project. AeroSHARK, a surface film

our know-how in surface design

that mimics the fine structure of a

and aerodynamics, we have now

shark’s skin, is to be rolled out on

succeeded in taking a major

Lufthansa Cargo’s entire freighter

step forward. This is an excellent

fleet from the beginning of 2022,

example of sustainability in practice,

making the aircraft more economical

achieved through partnership-

and reducing emissions.

based collaboration and innovative technologies,” says Dr. Markus

The surface structure consisting

Kamieth, Member of the Board of

of riblets measuring around 50

Executive Directors of BASF.

micrometers imitates the properties of sharkskin and therefore optimizes 104

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“We are proud that we will now

“We have always used our wealth

with Lufthansa Cargo. The extremely

industry. Exterior surfaces used

be able to operate our entire

of expertise as a global market

constructive collaboration with BASF

in aviation are exposed to factors

freighter fleet even more efficiently

leader in technical aircraft services

is also the best example of cross-

such as strong UV radiation as

in the future thanks to sharkskin

to also contribute to reducing the

sector cooperation in the interest

well as temperature and pressure

technology and reduce the carbon

ecological footprint of our industry.

of the sustainability of the aviation

fluctuations at high altitudes, among

footprint of our modern fleet further.

In doing so, we can leverage

industry.”

others. BASF has therefore focused

The investments we have made in

significant savings potential from all

rolling out AeroSHARK at Lufthansa

aircraft generations,” explains Dr.

The Coatings division of BASF is

extreme durability and weather

Cargo consciously reaffirm our

Johannes Bussmann, Chief Executive

developing innovative, functional

resistance. The key criteria for use

commitment to the United Nation’s

Officer of Lufthansa Technik AG.

films in its Beyond Paint Solutions

in aviation operation include simple

unit – such as the riblet surfaces,

application and handling as well as

sustainable development goal on

its development on achieving

climate action,” explains Dorothea

“I am therefore very proud that we

for example. A solution was

ease-of-repair, for which a custom

von Boxberg, Chief Executive Officer

will soon be able to transfer the

implemented together with

concept has been developed.

of Lufthansa Cargo AG.

positive findings of the validation

Lufthansa Technik which fulfills the

phase into the series application

strict requirements of the aviation

“As an expert in surfaces, we

In its cooperation with BASF,

implement bespoke solutions for

Lufthansa Technik is responsible

our customers. The innovative

for the material specification,

sharkskin technology allows us to

approval by the aviation authorities

support Lufthansa in achieving its

and performance of aircraft

sustainability goals and in making

modifications carried out as part

the aviation industry a little more

of regular maintenance layovers.

environmentally friendly,” says Dirk

Backed by decades of experience

Bremm, head of BASF’s Coatings

as an approved aviation design

division and also responsible for

organization, the company will

functional films in this role.

obtain a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the 777F from

COURTESY OF LUFTHANSA GROUP

the European Union Aviation Safety

03.05.2021

Agency (EASA), which is required for operation.

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INDULGING IN AFRICAN OUTFITS, MEANING LIVING LIFE IN FULL COLOUR

BY SABINA KLEMENC SMITH Live from Accra, Africa

Photos from Eunimak, Woodin, Global Mamas.

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fter two weeks spent settling into the house, I have realised that because of the hot and sticky weather I don’t have enough suitable clothes to wear. And, as a woman, I planned to indulge myself by finding shops where I could buy some light cotton dresses.

Yomi, the real-estate agent who showed us the house we are renting, and with whom we became friends, gave me the first suggestions on how to get by in a big city like Accra, with more than four million inhabitants. So, I joined a Facebook group AccraExpats, and also the NGO NAWA, where 108

I meet Eunice Maku Ayiku-Nartey, a dress designer, and much more. She is the owner of the creative fashion store Eunimak (eunimakna44@yahoo. com) which specialises in European and Afrocentric clothes for ladies, gentlemen and children. Eunice is also an expert in soft furnishing such as pillows, placemats and tablecloths, just to name a few. The covid situation has had an impact on her business which gave birth to her the idea of beautiful rugs, blossoming on the walls as artistic hangings.

So, I have decided to visit Eunimak, which really has a special atmosphere of creativity and passion. I was really amazed, admiring the creations from all sorts of fabrics. So colourful, and so authentic! ‘I would like a dress or two for sure,’ I heard myself speaking 109

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enthusiastically. In the end, Eunice made me three special dresses and a hat, but I also bought some presents for my family in Slovenia. I will definitely come back!

While shopping for groceries in Accra’s district Osu, ten minutes drive from our house, I have discovered Global Mamas (GlobalMamas.org), Their products are handmade and from light wear organic cotton. The company offers vibrant products created by skilled craftswomen for people who love living life in full colour. Its community works together to create a life of prosperity for African women and their families. They are fully committed to fair trade principles to improve the economic outlook for women in Ghana by delivering unique products defined by the Global Mama signature style. They are in demand also abroad.

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Accra, so we shared some lovely times together, and also a very traditional English Christmas lunch at our house.

When I entered the shop, a lovely shop assistant Dorcas welcomed me and showed me around. Their dresses are exactly what I wanted to wear for casual occasions. In the end, I have bought three of them, and two shirts for my husband. I was very happy about all the experience, and also with the other Global Mamas products, so I have become a regular customer.

In Osu I have also noticed an upstandard shop Woodin, selling cotton fabrics with vibrant colours and textures.

Prints varies from Kente and Batik patterns, but also with special Adinka symbols. They also offer traditional Ghanaian beads, and clothes for men and women. Their shops are spread all around Ghana, so they are a wellestablished company. Woodin promotes

Sara was very kind sharing some photos of her husband’s large, close and extended family. They are wearing traditional Ghanaian clothes for special occasions, like engagements and weddings, funerals and different anniversaries. For me those clothes are really special and outstanding.

The time is running fast, so we are already planning to have some holidays and experience a bit of other parts of Ghana, away from the hustle and bustle of crowdy Accra. Can’t wait! itself as strong believers in a pan-African identity, creating a style that is uniquely theirs.

As my husband needed some smart shirts for Friday casual wear in the office, I picked up two shirts for him, and later on one really special one for his upcoming birthday. He was very impressed by my choice and is happily wearing them.

Through Facebook I was very happy to get in contact with a Slovenian lady, Sara Mitic Owusu-Dankwah, married to a Ghanaian for quite some time. Sara and her family are living not far from

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T O P C H E F R E C I P E S YO U N E E D T O T R Y S O U T H A S I A F O O D – I N D I A

KAENG PHANAENG

METHOD-

MAI TAI

• For the Phanaeng Paste, place all ingredients along with 4 tablespoons of the oil into a blender then process to a very smooth paste. Set aside.

Ice 5-6cube Lemon-lime soda 70ml Pineapple juice 70ml Orange juice 70ml Grenadine 10ml Mint Leaves 5-8pcs Orange sliced (to garnish) 1pcs Pineapple slice (to garnish) 1pcs Limes cut into wedges (to garnish) 1pcs Toothpicks for cherries optional

• For the Kaeng Phanaeng, Chicken toss with oil to coat for 10min. set aside • Meanwhile, for the Phanaeng Paste, place the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil into a wok over medium heat. Add the paste and cook, stirring until caramelized but not burnt, about 10-12 minutes.

INGREDIENTS FOR PHANAENG PASTE

INGREDIENTS FOR KAENG PHANAENG

Red chilies 8long Birdseye chilies 2pcs Ground cumin 3gm Ground coriander seed 5gm Lemongrass, roughly chopped 1stlk Ginger, roughly chopped 15gm Zest of kaffir lime 1pcs Kaffir lime leaves 2pcs Coriander stems and roots 3pcs Garlic, peeled 5cloves Shallots, roughly chopped 3pcs Peanuts 50gm Grape seed oil 20ml

Chicken Curry Cut Grape seed oil Coconut cream Coconut milk Tamarinds puree Sugar Fish sauce Thai basil leaves picked

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150gm 10ml 400ml 200ml 10gm 5gm 10gm 1½ bunch

• Add Chicken and toss to coat in the paste and cook for 10 minutes. Add coconut cream and milk bring to a boil then reduce the heat to low and simmer until Chicken is tender, about 20 minutes. Add tamarind, sugar and fish sauce to taste.

• For the Lime Coconut Rice, place ingredients into a rice cooker and cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.

METHOD-

• Fill a beverage glass halfway with ice. Add lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, mint leaves, orange juice, and grenadine. Garnish with orange slice, lime wedge, and a toothpick skewered with cherries.

Recipes are prepared by the internationally recognized Indian Chef Ajay Markan. He is an hospitality veteran with over 3 decades of extensive & rich experience in National & international cuisine.

• Garnish with Coconut cream and chili oil and serve.

INGREDIENTS FOR LIME COCONUT RICE

Jasmine rice Water Lemongrass, crushed Coconut Cream

200gm 355ml 1 stalk 50ml

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“Prishtina 4Ict Industry 2021” Insights & Reflections

BY ALBANA LAKNORI*

JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE

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he creation of the TIK Industry and the development of digital transformation, the innovative solutions “SMART” and the introduction of TIK services internationally were the major objectives of EEN Kosovo and its inter-regional B2B and Matchmaking Event, focused on the TIK and digital sector.

When the staff of the Chamber and I were making preparations for this event, held in Prishtina, I was a bit doubtful if it would be successful due to pandemic and its accompanying restrictions. Not only the event turned out wonderfully but it overcame its expectations and I left Prishtina with the hope and faith that Kosovo will become an example for Albania. And I felt good.

Below I am making a short account of what we did in Prishtina.

B2B and Matchmaking in Prishtina was jointly organized by Prishtina REA, Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Tirana (CTIT), Albanian Investment Development Agency (AIDA), The Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Albania during April 22-23, 2021 where ICT and the Digital Companies from the region (Kosovo, the Northern Macedonia, Serbia, Albania and Montenegro) had the opportunity

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to meet aiming at exploring the possible business potentials and the creating of direct cooperation among their respective counterparts from the TIK which represents the most vivid sector of the Western Balkans of the most developed enterprises of technology.

Meeting STIKK marked the first day to continue with the visit in the Innovation Center of Kosovo (ICK). STIKK has the role of mediating between the interested stakeholders in the field of TIK, especially in the relations between the business community and the government.

ICK aims to connect the research and development component of scientific field with the business sector focusing on the creation of new job possibilities oriented towards the future, based on new knowledge and technology.

ICK was founded to boost the startups, the innovation and the development of commercial businesses focusing on the technology of information and communication. The Center supports the startups as well as the aspiring existing companies.

The next visit was in evroTarget. evroTarget L.L.C. begun in 2006 as a branch of L.L.C. which was founded in

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The event continued with a visit at Gjirafa.

2011 and is part of HORIZONTE GROUP AG. Actually evroTarget employs around 250 employees and is constantly trying to create new jobs through addressing new projects.

The aim of evroTarget is to provide high-quality and reliable services and products which suit to individual clients

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Gjirafa Inc. is a US company. It is a platform of production and a studio of production of videos and leading company of sales on Internet.

Gjirafa runs Internet services in the Balkans and the Albanian Diaspora. Gjirafa Inc. is the company with the fastest growth in the Balkans which offers Internet services and one of the initial businesses with the biggest investment in VC by reputable investors in Europe.

Gjirafa is ranked the 11th on the list of Deloitte Technology Fast 50 ranking for the Central Europe and the first in the region with an increase of 1,500 % in the last four years.

Their vision is to build the economy of internet in the Balkans focusing on the main services that are missing in the region for a market of around 12 million of inhabitants.

The last visit was at LinkPlus IT company.

LinkPlus IT is a company of specialized software in developing applications of escalated enterprises. They use the latest technologies helping the businesses to contact their client in all the mediums despite the platform they use. This includes applications in web, Android, iOS and HTML5.

DAY2 – B2B AND MATCHMAKING MEETINGS. ICT companies, invited by CCIT in this event, took part in the B2B meetings, organized during the second day, with companies from Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Montenegro and others.

The lesson we received was simple but grand. These girls and boys , who had studied abroad, great professional women and men had brought the last say of technology to Prishtina and they were trying to resolve on their own initiative two important things: 1. Youth employment 2. Development of Kosovo economy. I wish Albania learns from their experience to support Albanian youth because we have endless possibilities to do that.

Thank you Ahmet, Mimoza, Mergim, Ermal, Dominik, Shpat for your far vision, dedication and the inspiration you gave to me. *Secretary General Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Tirana

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“

HORSE RIDING, MORE THAN A DREAM FOR US, A REASON TO LIVE

Ten years ago when thousands of people were leaving the country. We opened the first outdoor riding stable in Albania and it became the inspiration to stay,” says Kristina Fidhi in an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE. She started the business with rented horses from farmers and ended up building their own stable with 44 horses.

“Caravan Horse Riding Albania was an adventure and a dream,” she said.

Caravan Horse Riding Albania was boosted by Risi Albania, a well-known innovative project supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, SDC, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and Economy and implemented by Helvetas and Partners Albania.

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“It is a long way and Risi Albania helped by giving chances to be better oriented in tourism, shape new products to support not only shoulder season but also pandemics challenges,” she said, adding “We used the support to build several programs, to improve our online presence and to give opportunities to young people have a job or selfemployment.”

When did you start to ride? Were you always drawn to it?

My first experience on a horse was when I was 5 and the moment remained unforgettable. Since childhood I was dreaming to have a horse for myself and travel the world. This vanished with the time. The studies and the other obligations ruled over my horse riding dream. I returned back on a horse years later when together with my husband and a childhood friend started to

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rent horses and ride for pleasure. We were exploring the surroundings of Gjirokastër, the wild nature and horse riding became a real escape for us.

The idea of opening a business based on horses seemed unrealistic for most people years ago. It was happening 10 years ago when thousands of people were leaving the country. We opened the first outdoor riding stable in Albania and it became the inspiration to stay.

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I am happy that we did it and that the dream to travel the world on horseback became true. Putting values on what you do helped the business grow. Our guests from all over the world could easily see that.

different disciplines, equipment, horse treatment, medication, vaccines, deworming, training etc. We shaped a whole network of family houses in different rural areas to be our support for the long trips. Nowadays 12 local families are living from the trails. It is a long way and Risi Albania helped by giving chances to be better oriented in tourism, shape new products to support not only shoulder season but also pandemics challenges. We used the support to build several programs, to improve our online presence and to give opportunities to young people have a job or self-employment. Risi Albania supported our community based vision.

We keep riding for ourselves because our time matters.

“No one knew anything about Albania or the Albanian horses”

The first years were really difficult to become known in the international market. No one knew anything about Albania or the Albanian horses. We had to learn many things ourselves and then look for markets.

A journalist who rides horses. How does it feel?

Has it helped you in your professional career?

Sometimes it feels like riding a crazy stallion.

Journalism has rhythm.

I learned balance from horse riding and applied it to journalism. I learned so much during my experience in journalism but most things I know for myself were taught by horses.

A horse gives power and freedom to his rider not only on horseback. Horses help you face your fears and insecurities, they inspire to follow your instinct or your heart and above all horses never lie. They don’t need too. Every journalist needs these lessons.

Being connected to horses shaped all my life and gave me chances to see isolated corners of our world that make journalism subjects.

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Our local partners did receive trainings on hospitality, cleaning and hygiene standards, cooking, customers service etc. Recently we are working on a new branch of activities that came as a need to face and respond to Covid 19.

How did you manage to start out Travel Caravan in the gorgeous city of Gjirokastra and what has been the role of Risi Albania in it?

We started the business with rented horses from farmers and ended up building our own stable with 44 horses.

Caravan Horse Riding Albania was an adventure and a dream. The first years we had to learn about proper horse management, international standards,

Based on the same values we are now bringing to the market at least 14 new tourism products including rural and city tours. Risi Albania did support the idea from the beginning and now around 30 community members, including guest houses, artisans, small producers, farmers, experts, artists and others are involved in the new project.

The support is giving chances to self-

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customers. Many stories are published by the important European horse magazines or other media such as “Cheval” or “Main Pferd”, “Horsexplore,” “Pferd & Reiter” or “Trail Finders” catalogues publish our horse riding offers every year. Our customers very often become excellent writers for our blog. Trailblazing Magazine can help to go further in making known these products while diversifying. Based on our goal to make customers’ time valuable we bring in market for the first time a combination of many products such as hiking, off road experiences, exploring, city tours, village weekends, art class, wine and poetry tasting.

growth and critical thinking to find new ways and adapt to new situations.

How well known is Travel Caravan among foreigners and how can Trailblazing Magazine can help in this regard?

Caravan Horse Riding Albania has a good reputation through European riders who have been our main

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We want to inspire through these options customers that travel for a reason, people that care and support authentic experiences.

Do you have plans to expand horse riding in other cities of Albania? What are your plans for the summer?

We have already shaped a winter program that combines horses with other activities, especially arts. At the moment we are focused in knowing

better our Albanian customers and also regional ones as they represent a totally new market. We cover with horse riding trails a large area of the South from the Ionian coast to the depth of Përmet.

At the moment the expansion idea is related with new activities in order to be able to offer in the future multi adventure and multi experience tours.

Furthermore we plan to come in autumn with a new riding arena that will be built next to our stable. The investment goes together with a detailed riding school program.

We will be ready to welcome soon horse lovers for riding lessons and fulfill another dream to start creating the horse riders community of the country.

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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE CASINO

CASINO

A Talk with JJ Woods on Casino Consultancy WITH OVER 35 YEARS IN CASINO INDUSTRY, JJ WOODS WAS BORN IN IRELAND BUT LEFT IN THE 1970 TO LIVE IN LONDON AND START A CAREER IN BANKING. AFTER 4 YEARS IN BANKING, HE TRAINED IN THE CASINO INDUSTRY IN LONDON. OVER HIS LONG CAREER, HE HAS DEDICATED TO THE DESIGN, SET UP AND MANAGEMENT OF CASINOS AROUND THE WORLD. JJ WOODS WAS THE CONSULTANT FOR THE COMPLETE SET UP OF THE CARLTON CASINO CLUB IN DUBLIN WHICH OPENED CHRISTMAS 2019.

HTTPS://WWW.CARLTONCASINOCLUB.COM/ HE WAS THE CHOSEN CONSULTANT FOR THE LARGEST RESORT STYLE CASINO IN EUROPE: THE TIPPERARY VENUE IN WHICH HE PARTNERED WITH PRICE WATERHOUSE ON THE PROJECT.

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“ It has overall been a wonderful journey” and discovered Casinos! So I did my training in the London Casinos and then I started working abroad.

90’s. I have since opened Casino’s in South America, Caribbean and North Africa and pioneered the “Boutique Style” casino which used in several countries but in particular Ireland. I have consulted worldwide on gaming issues and appeared on TV & Radio, Conference speaking etc.

To sum up the above it has overall been a wonderful journey but unlike other job’s there are times when you spend long durations from your family, sometimes several months and there is good and safe countries that you visit and not so good and not so safe countries. I guess this includes people also as the gaming industry has some wonderful people within it but for obvious reasons it also attracts, shall we say the not so wonderful people.

has changed over the last 20 years. So set –up and design today will usually offer more than just one attraction and usually the Casino is not the main draw as there is a Spa, Beach, Water sports and the Hotel itself which will add to the experience.

In your view, what it takes to make a “Wow” casino in terms of its set-up and design?

I can answer that very simply. Of course, the design is important which hopefully will add to the “wow” factor. However, it never ceases to amaze me how much Casinos invest in the design and how little they invest in staff? Believe me the “wow” factor is 75% of your staff. I have over the years witnessed Casino with sawdust (wood shavings on the ground) make more money than Casino’s with echo chambers in reception, gold hand rails and all the trimmings. What makes the Casino successful is not the latest slot machine or fancy design but how the staff interact with the customers.

We must remember that is what Casinos originally set out to do, we sold you an experience and we made it possible for you to leave the Casino happy even though you lost! Operators seem to have forgotten that principle but it’s true.

Today much to often we witness Casinos been run like fast food outlets “ Have a Nice Day “ etc once this happens we have lost our way .

The design is important as we must remember today Land based Casinos are fighting for their very existence due to the increased popularity of online gaming mainly due to the Covid crisis.

It is interesting to note that some years back Hotels, Resorts etc were constantly enquiring about having a Casino installed at their property but today the Casino’s are phoning those properties and literally begging to install a Casino and that is how the industry

I was part of the management team that opened Russia’s first casino in Moscow after Gorbachev at the beginning of the

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Finally if it’s a casino I have consulted on , I am old fashioned so I usually go for the tassel lamp shades above the gaming tables which are brighter than the surrounding lighting as I believe the gaming tables are like the stage and should be lit accordingly and the dealers are the actors ! Gaming people often say the casino staff should have been issued with Equity Card’s instead of a gaming License and that takes us back

“ We must remember that is what Casinos originally set out to do”

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Please can you tell us how has been the experience of being a casino consultant for 35 years?

Well I started working in Banking in London in the late 70’s and after rising to the position of “operational reserve officer” which basically meant travelling from branch to branch to conduct training for other staff members, I started to realize that daytime work was particularly tiresome on myself and my energy levels were starting to decrease, So I started to look into night time work

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What do you recommend to the casino operators and designers in Albania?

Of course the 1st thing I recommend is that they talk to a gaming consultant and the reason being is that the consultant will give an unbiased and fair judgement on all of their concerns. For example if an operator goes to a Casino Equipment supplier, the supplier will give them

“ I would also point out that not every game is popular” every reason as to why they should buy their gaming apparatus because that is what they do, they are wanting to sell.

However a consultant will have already done research on that particular gaming apparatus and will know if in fact the people in that country / region would be attracted to playing that type of game.

I would also point out that not every game is popular, it depends on the culture of the country and how the game is presented. For example Roulette in Ireland took some years to catch on

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because the culture was mostly card games as people played cards from a young age in their homes so they naturally leaned to playing Blackjack, 3 Card Poker etc when Casino’s opened some 20 years back.

Finally I would add than a themed Casino would always get my vote as this can turn the property into an exciting place to visit, An example of this would be one of my earlier designs which was called “Silks Casino” which refers to the garment worn by Horse Racing Jockeys and so the entire property was dedicated to the world of horse racing with special memorabilia on show and specially designed roulette wheels with famous horses names painted into the wheel etc.

What are the most problematic aspects when you deal with the casino operations management?

I would say that most people answering this never seem to mention this aspect but this is the truth believe me. The reality is it is the casino result or winnings if you like and behind the scenes this is going on constantly and the visiting customers have no idea or if they did it would be a very badly run casino ! So the cameras are constantly monitoring the Customers, the game, the staff and relaying the results to and fro from the various table games and all of the time analyzing the projected

or final result, hence it is no surprise at the end of the evening when casino is closed as the management have a fair idea of how the Casino has performed.

So the above for me is the most popular issue as operators will always ask a consultant how can they make more money from their casino and in truth whilst I cannot go into it here in any depth but the solution to make the casino more profitable is usually very simple so far to say that when I have been requested to do this it has always improved.

And finally, another most problematic aspect on the Consultancy side is when Staff are stealing or are in collusion with others to do so. Whilst this is not my favourite part of the consultancy request it is of the utmost importance as it can destroy a business and cause others to

“They felt they could put it to better use than the customer.” lose their jobs which effects their families and has far reaching consequences for the all concerned including the investors / owners . One of the most significant attributes that a casino can have is trust and when that is broken it can ripple and shake the foundations that the very business is built on.

Again it is difficult to elaborate any more on the issue here in this piece except to say, By the time the consultant gets the call the crime has already been committed and usually it has been going on for several weeks, months and sometimes years, which is why in Casino fraud /stealing etc you will only ever get a rough estimate of how much money was taken because they simply cannot come up with an accurate figure. In

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to the importance of staff as they make the experience happen.

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They felt they could put it to better use

“I already have visited Tirana and done a small consultancy on the possibility of a Casino”

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than the customer. This is why I say over and over invest time and money into the recruitment or training of good staff and tell them at the beginning that they will see large amounts of money being gambled and how do they feel about that ?

Talking about security of casinos, what are the security guidelines that you can share for a casino in terms of the security of players and casino employees?

This is a pivotal point for the successful operation or existence of any Casino operation, It reminds me of my days in Moscow when the customers had to hand in their guns to us on arrival and we returned them at the end of the evening, thankfully we have moved on but on that note I do remember in one establishment in Moscow when a guy pointed a gun at a player on Blackjack and explained he needed to take a card! Today I would vouch than the casino environment is one of the safest for all the people, staff and customers. One of the main reasons for this is because of the Reception’s role in meeting and greeting customers

“ We have really moved on regarding technology with camera surveillance and in truth every part of the Casino is monitored” when they arrive and following the AML (Anti Money Laundering) entry rules and compliances.

There is very few countries today that do not have comply with AML Policy and I guess good or bad that has enhanced the security of the casino indirectly.

We have really moved on regarding technology with camera surveillance and in truth every part of the Casino is monitored. As I said above most Casinos have to comply with rules, membership forms be it their own initiative or one that a government has enforced on them which make the casino a less attractive place for criminals to frequent. So in my opinion and in most parts of the world the casino is a safer option than most.

Do you think Albania will be added to the list of the countries where you have given your experience as a casino consultant?

I would like to think so, I already have visited Tirana and done a small consultancy on the possibility of a Casino located there some time back. It is indeed wonderful city and it opened my eyes to Albania as a country not to mention the fantastic coastal regions.

In my experience Casinos have a direct connect to tourism and I see Albania benefiting from the proper roll out of regulated Casinos throughout the country. It will encourage more people to visit Albania and investors will look at resort projects more fondly if they a Casino installed. When I visited Tirana there was Slot Parlours (gaming machines) all over the city, In fact I had never seen so many gambling properties like this all in one city. This type of gambling preys on the young and vulnerable and gives gambling in general a bad reputation. I was very pleased when the Albanian government closed them down which was the correct decision. Albania can now become a reputable member of the International gaming industry and encourage businessmen and tourists alike to visit what is simply a beautiful country.

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my experience having consulted on the issue, you analyse trends and behaviours of staff and sometimes customers as many cases involve both and you spend an extraordinary amount of time on the camera system. In the majority of cases I have dealt with the person stealing did not necessarily need the money but it was because they felt they respected the money more than the customers did!

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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE

STORY

Here is how to prepare this simple recipe:

The stone city of Gjirokastra is notable not only for its unique architecture but also for its traditional cuisine which is rich in spices and aromas that characterize this country.

One of the most special and oldest dishes is Qifqi.

Behind this old cooking lies a very interesting story to tell.

When in an old Gjirokastra family a child was born, the bride’s mother-in-law was cooking for her daughter-in-law, the Qifqi, for reasons that this cooking had a very good effect on breastfeeding or abdominal pain.

Qifqi from Gjirokastra 132

The traditional Qifqi originates from the southern Albanian city of Gjirokaster.

Shaped like meatballs, this vegan dish is easy to prepare and is considered as the national dish of Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The customized frying pan that is used specifically to shape qifqi is a very important component to this recipe, but especially the generous use of mint powder which leaves a pleasant, fresh aftertaste.

• Rinse your rice in a strainer before cooking. Bring the water to boil in a small saucepan. You may use a 1:2 ratio of one cup of rice to two cups of water.

Let it cook for 12 minutes. Alternatively, you may use leftover rice for this recipe.

• Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Add mint powder and freshly grounded black pepper and salt.

Mix and knead it together with the precooked rice until the mixture becomes solid.

• Use a tablespoon to divide the mixture into small rounded balls. Fry in heated 180 °C olive oil on a socket-bottomed frying pan (used specifically for this recipe; can be purchased in Gjirokastra).

Certainly, the best spots to savour this dish can be found in the old town Gjirokastra – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Courtesy of www.Visit-Gjirokastra.com

Max of people: 8 persons Duration: 40 min

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ALBANIAN CULINARY DELIGHTS

ALBANIAN CULINARY DELIGHTS

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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE

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HISTORY OF THE MONASTERY

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he Monastery of Ardenica is located at the highest point of a range of hills stretching across the great plain of Myzeqea. Over the centuries this monastery has been an important historical, cultural, and spiritual center of the Orthodox Church.

The monastery was situated close to the important road, Via Egnatia, which joined Western and Eastern Europe and continued all the way to Constantinople.

Because it was located on this major artery, the monastery drew many people to its gates.

The monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of the All-Holy Theotokos and celebrates its feast-day on September 8th, when a great number of the faithful gather from all over Albania.

According to tradition, the monastery itself was founded in the 13th or 14th century, during the time of the Epirius Despotism. The central Church of the Nativity of the Theotokos was built in 1743, with funds from merchants if Voskopoja, who were scattered across Europe. It is said that this church replaced an older church, which was destroyed together with the entire monastery at the end of the 17th century, perhaps from a fire or earthquake.

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T R AV E L

T R AV E L

Journey into The Monastery of Ardenica with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE

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T R AV E L

T R AV E L

Its restoration was due in large part to the abbot of the monastery Nektar Terpo from Voskopoja, a renowned personality and preacher of the Church at that time. Two years after the building of the church, Abbot Andoni wrote a letter to the donors requesting their continued economic help in order to rebuild the monastery. The funds gathered from these efforts made possible the gradual completion of the monastery’s buildings. Now, though they have been repaired several times, most of the buildings at the monastery – the cellars, kitchen, bakery, cells, welcoming rooms, and especially the oil mill – are in their original form and rank among the best preserved buildings for monasteries of the 18th century.

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THE ADORNMENT INSIDE THE MAIN CHURCH The inside walls of the monastery church are completely covered with frescoes.

The murals are the work of Konstandin and Athanas Zografi , who were brothers from Korca; they date back to the year 1744. All of the words, including those on the frescoes, are written in old Greek. Some of the more notable frescoes can be found on the northern part of the western-facing wall, where visitors will find icons of the seven saints who evangelized the Slavs as well as St. John Kukuzeli of Durres, a notable Byzantine musician of the 12th century.

It is also worth noticing the group of frescoes devoted to the sufferings of Christ on the fourth level of the murals. A majority of the icons on the iconostasis were made in 1744 by another famous iconographer of the 18th century, Konstandin Shpataraku (from the region of Shpati near Elbasan.) Among the icons on the iconostasis was also an icon of St. John Vladimir.

The Albanian Prince, Karl Topia, is also pictured there in miniature. This icon is now housed in the Medieval Art Museum in Korca. The iconostasis structure itself was also carved around the year 1744 and repaired in 1804. The Episcopal throne, the amvon and the icon stand were also carved during the same period. All the wood carvings are painted with gold.

Flora and fauna are a significant element carved in these pieces and each has a symbolic meaning. They rank among the

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most beautiful carved pieces of these regions. Inside the church are also a number of silver adornments with floral motifs, such as the lampadas of the iconostasis which date back to the years 1725 and 1745.

Many of the liturgical and historical artistic objects of the Monastery are preserved in archival and private museum collections, both local and foreign, in at least five other European countries: Greece, Italy, Austria, Hungary and Poland.

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